Dental Implant

Dental implant surgery is a procedure in which, using tools like screws, damaged or missing teeth are replaced with artificial teeth that have similarities with real teeth functionally.

Dental implants can be a good option for troubled prosthesis or bridge treatments. It can offer a solution in cases where the lack of natural tooth roots is a problem in prosthesis or bridge treatments. How dental implant surgery is performed depends on the type of implant and the structure of the jawbone. It can be applied in several different methods.

Dental Implants: Procedures

Dentists in different fields may come together during the planning for the application of dental implants. A dentist who specializes in the mouth and jaw; a dentist who specializes in gums and bones; a dentist who designs artificial teeth and, if necessary, an otolaryngologist. First of all, the patient undergoes an examination with oral x-rays and 3D images. In addition to this process, teeth and jaw models can mostly be made.

If the jawbone does not have thickness enough at the implant site, additional bone grafting may be needed. The lack of strength of the bone tissue affects the chewing function, so the dental implant may fail. When the dental implant is to be placed, the surgeon makes an incision to open the gum and see the bone structure. A few holes are made where the implant will be placed. The screw acts as the root of the tooth. In this process, a temporary prosthesis can be placed. Parts called "abutments", which are used to attach artificial teeth with implants, are also placed at this stage.

Once the jawbone has healed enough, artificial teeth can be placed on the patient. There are several different types of dental implants. The most preferred types are endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants. Endosteal is the safest and most common among them. Zygomatic implants are the type of implant with the most complex procedure.

Dental Implant: Aftercare

It can be said that dental implant operations are generally successful. In some cases, the bone may not adapt sufficiently to the implant. Smoking may negatively affect dental implant treatment and cause complications. When the compatibility is not sufficient, the implant is removed. The bone is cleaned and the same procedure can be tried again after about three months.

Oral hygiene is the most important thing in the post-treatment period. It is necessary for the patient to take the same care of the implants as the natural teeth. Avoiding foods that damage the implants, paying attention while eating and drinking, and not neglecting check-ups with the dentist are also all helpful in the care process.