implant

Many people gradually lose their teeth for various reasons and seek a permanent solution to replace missing teeth.Historically, missing teeth were replaced with various methods, including removable dentures, which sometimes did not fit properly.Nowadays, dental implants are one of the most effective and popular solutions.Placing an implant in the mouth does not cause any problems for the patient, who can use it for a lifetime without complications.

Continue reading this article to learn more about dental implants.

What is a Dental Implant?

Today, dental implant treatment is considered the best method for replacing missing teeth.An implant is a metal alloy (usually titanium) that is biocompatible, placed within the jawbone, and supports prosthetic structures such as crowns, providing functionality similar to a natural tooth.

Components of a Dental Implant:

The implant consists of three main parts, connected together through proper interfaces.

• Fixture: One of the most important parts of the implant is the fixture, which is inserted into the jawbone during a short surgical procedure. The fixture acts as the root of a natural tooth.

• Abutment: The abutment serves as the connector between the crown and the fixture, securing both. Unlike abutments used to support dentures, dental implant abutments are specifically designed for permanent restoration.

• Abutment: The abutment serves as the connector between the crown and the fixture, securing both. Unlike abutments used to support dentures, dental implant abutments are specifically designed for permanent restoration.

Are there age limitations for dental implants?

For individuals under 18 years old, it is generally recommended to avoid implants due to incomplete jawbone growth. Implants placed before this age may appear shorter as facial and jaw growth continues. If performed, the crown should be adjusted after age 18 to match the remaining teeth and jaw.

How much does a dental implant cost?

The cost of a dental implant varies depending on multiple factors, including:

• The number of teeth to be replaced with implants

• Type of dental implant
• Surgical technique used
• Type of crown placed on the implant
• Additional procedures needed, such as sinus lift or bone grafting
• Costs related to implant-specific radiographs
• Technologies and equipment used

What are the stages of dental implant treatment?

• Consultation, Examination, and Determination of Implant Type and Quantity: At this stage, the dentist examines the patient’s oral condition and determines the best treatment plan, including the type and number of implants required.
• Implant Surgery: The dentist places a metal fixture in the patient’s jawbone, usually made of titanium, which integrates with the bone through osseointegration.
• Impression Taking, Shade Selection, and Laboratory Processing: Approximately 2-3 months after implant surgery, once osseointegration is confirmed, an impression of the patient’s mouth is taken and sent to the laboratory for crown fabrication. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks, during which the crown is tested and adjusted in the mouth multiple times to ensure proper fit and aesthetics.
• Final Crown Placement: The dentist places the crown on the implant fixture, usually cemented initially with temporary adhesive. This allows removal if future complications, such as inflammation or infection around the implant, occur.

What is a Sinus Lift Surgery?

In the upper jaw, there is a hollow cavity called the sinus, which can expand downward after tooth extraction. In a sinus lift surgery, this cavity is elevated to create sufficient bone height for implant placement. Depending on available bone, the procedure can be performed simultaneously with implant placement or as a staged approach.

Post-Implant Care:

• Use cold and warm compresses (cold on the first day, warm on the second day)
• Use prescribed mouthwash, antibiotics, and analgesics
• Avoid hot, spicy, and heavily seasoned foods
• Avoid brushing and flossing for the first 24 hours after surgery
• Consume soft and cold foods such as cold milk, rice pudding, porridge, etc.
• Avoid smoking
• Avoid spitting for 48 hours after surgery
• Do not use straws for drinking
• Avoid hard and sticky foods
• Avoid exercise and aerobic activities for 3 days after surgery
• If non-resorbable sutures were used, return 7-10 days post-surgery for removal.