An implant is an artificial tooth root, usually in the shape of a screw, placed into the jawbone as a result of tooth loss. Since implants, which are generally made of titanium, have a high tissue compatibility, their success rate is also high. The advantage of implant treatment compared to other treatments is that neighboring teeth are not harmed. Implant treatment can be applied to anyone who has completed the age of 18 and has completed bone development.
A dental implant can offer a pleasant alternative to ill-fitting dentures or bridges and is therefore preferred more than methods such as traditional bridges.
How is Implant Treatment Performed?
Prior to implant treatment, a detailed examination is performed on the person, and an intraoral X-ray is taken. In this procedure, measurements of the jawbone and remaining teeth are taken. There are two different applications for placing implants. In the single-stage procedure, a temporary healing cap is attached after the implant is placed.
In the two-stage process, the dental implant is placed, the gum is closed, and it is left to heal. Afterward, prosthetic caps are attached. In both methods, a temporary bridge is placed, and there is a healing period of three months in the lower jaw and 6 months in the upper jaw.
What Are the Types of Implants?
Implant types are mostly differentiated based on the findings of the patient's dental and oral tissue resulting from a dentist examination. Therefore, to achieve a successful outcome, a detailed examination and evaluation must be carried out by a specialist who is trained and experienced in his field. In addition to these, the most frequently preferred and used implant types can be listed as follows:
Endosseous Implants: This is the commonly used implant type today. Also known as endosteal implants, endosseous implants are applied in cases where one or more teeth are missing.
Endodontic Implants: The treatment is performed with implants placed on existing natural teeth to increase the durability and lifespan of the tooth. It is among the frequently preferred types.
Transosseous Implants: There is an implant placed not only in the area of the missing tooth but along the entire jawbone. Since it is a difficult procedure in terms of application, he must be under general anesthesia. In addition to the application, it is not preferred very much due to the slow healing rate.
Intramucosal Implants: Being one of the oldest implant applications, intramucosal implants consist entirely of titanium. They are applied to increase retention in prostheses.
Subperiosteal Implants: This is not a very frequently preferred implant type. However, it can be applied for individuals whose natural jawbone is insufficient in order to support endosteal implants.
What Should Be Considered Before Getting a Dental Implant?
An implant is an artificial tooth root placed into the jawbone to restore the functionality and appearance of missing teeth in the mouth. Implant screws are structures with a certain thickness and width. Therefore, the jawbone in the region where the implant will be placed must have a height and width suitable for the implant screw. Some of the situations that should be considered before getting a dental implant are as follows:
- The gums must be completely healthy prior to treatment and for as long as the implant remains in the mouth.
- It is important that the treatment process is planned correctly and by a dentist trained in his field.
- The compatibility of the bone structure with the materials used affects the success of the implant.
- Before implant treatment, a specialist must check whether the bone, gums, and other teeth are sufficiently healthy.
Who Can Receive Dental Implant Treatment?
Implant treatment can be applied to individuals who have reached the age of 18 and have completed their jaw and facial development. Prior to treatment, it is determined via an X-ray film whether the jaw structure is suitable for implant treatment.
Care must be taken before applying implant treatment to diabetic patients. In individuals using blood thinners, the medication is stopped first, and then the implant treatment is performed. In addition to these, dental implant application can be performed in the following situations;
- Patients with a single missing tooth,
- Fully or partially edentulous patients,
- In tooth losses due to various reasons or trauma,
- Patients with jaw and facial defects,
- Patients with the problem of a resorbed jawbone,
- Patients who do not want to use removable prostheses.
When is a Prosthesis on an Implant Made?
Performing the loading on the placed implant at the correct time and in accordance with the rules is also an important factor affecting the lifespan of the treatment. Generally, after 3 months, the implant and the bone fuse, and the implant is uncovered to begin the fabrication of the tooth. When a sinus lift procedure is performed, this period must be 6 months.