Dental Implants

Dental implants, which are among the modern dentistry applications, have been developed as a solution for those who have lost teeth for different reasons. Although this application, which supports oral health and aesthetic appearance, has been popular in the last 20 years, it actually has a history of more than 100 years.

The implant, which acts as a tooth root, has been developed as an alternative to bridge and prosthetic dental treatments. It is a dental treatment that produces permanent solutions for those who want to get rid of the difficulties of using dentures. Thanks to the advantages it offers, it is more preferred than other dental treatments.

Thanks to the artificial tooth root, missing teeth are completed and chewing function is made healthier. It also works perfectly to improve the unaesthetic appearance caused by missing teeth. It offers an extremely natural and healthy tooth appearance.

What is an implant in this article? How this dental treatment is done, who it is applied to, who it is not suitable for and details on the lifespan of the dental implant are included.

What is an Implant?

The dental implant, first patented in 1908, is actually a dental treatment used even in the Mayan civilization in the 6th century BC. In archaeological findings, it was determined that missing teeth were completed with this technique. Today, it is done with modern dentistry application techniques.

Dental implant is a screw-shaped artificial tooth root placed in the jawbone. These teeth, made of titanium material compatible with body tissue, are placed into the jawbone by operation. Thanks to its compatibility, it is accepted by the body as its own part and is not rejected.

There are implant types with different structural and application features. These types are as follows:

• Intramucosal
• Endostal
• Subperiostal
• Transosseous
• Endodontic.
• One-piece ceramic.
• Ceramic
• Titanium
• Ceramic over titanium.

Among all these types, ceramic and titanium implants are often used. This artificial tooth root is extremely popular for the advantages it offers to its users. The underlying reason for having so many different types is to meet different needs and expectations in this field.

How is Implant Treatment Performed?

Dental implants, which provide excellent results in single or multiple missing teeth, are applied by a dentist who is an expert in this treatment technique. Although the application steps vary slightly from specialist to specialist, they are generally close to each other.

The steps in artificial tooth root application are as follows:

• The patient’s oral structure and general health status are evaluated by performing a dental examination.
• During this evaluation, the condition of the teeth is examined with the help of a special X-ray.
• Then the operation is planned.
• Under local anesthesia, the patient receives a titanium root. The duration of the procedure can vary between 30-90 minutes depending on the number of artificial tooth roots.
• A waiting period is started for the inserted tooth roots to integrate with the jawbone.
• During the waiting period, which varies between 3-6 months, temporary prosthesis is applied to the patient if desired.
• After the examination performed after the waiting period, the upper teeth are attached to the artificial tooth roots.

In bridge dental treatments, the side teeth are cut to make them suitable for the bridge. Therefore, the side teeth are damaged, even if they are intact. Dentures are generally not very useful due to protrusion, slipping and maintenance problems. Dental implants, on the other hand, are highly functional in that the results obtained are permanent and useful, even if the insertion process seems a bit laborious. It makes chewing and biting functions perfect.

Who Can Receive Implant Treatment?

IAfter dental implant treatment, which has a success rate of around 98%, the life of the implanted tooth is extremely long. Proper care is a critical point that ensures a long implant life. In addition, how correctly the procedure is performed, the jaw structure and the general health status of the person are also important details in terms of its lifespan.

Although it attracts attention with its natural appearance, the implant may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, in the first examination, it is necessary to evaluate whether the criteria required for this treatment are met.

The criteria for people who are suitable for this dental treatment are as follows:

• Those whose general health is suitable for oral surgery.
• Those with healthy gums and sufficient bone structure.
• Those who are looking for a permanent solution for their missing teeth.
• Those over 18 years of age.
• Those who are not too old.
• Those who do not have serious diseases that prevent dental surgery.
• Those who use prostheses and complain about their difficulties.
• Those who have difficulty chewing and want to improve their chewing function.
• Those who want a tooth structure with a natural appearance.
• Those who do not want to cut the teeth next to the missing tooth with other dental treatments such as bridges.
• Those who have the necessary budget to have an implant.

People with complete bone development can quickly get rid of missing tooth problems thanks to dental implants. They can recover quickly and have a more comfortable dental treatment process with flapless, that is, seamless dental surgery.

Who Cannot Receive Implant Treatment?

Although there are different types of implants, some people’s conditions may increase the risk of complications and side effects of this surgery. Therefore, during the first examination, it is decided whether the person is suitable for this dental treatment. If not, it is decided which dental treatments may be suitable for missing teeth and other dental problems.

People who are not suitable for artificial tooth root treatment are as follows:

• Those who do not pay attention to oral hygiene.
• Under 18 years of age and very old.
• Those with serious diseases such as heart disease, cancer, blood pressure, blood clotting problems, scar non-healing and diabetes.
• Those who have undergone radiation therapy in the head and neck area.
• Heavy smokers.
• Those with insufficient jawbone.

Although the implant process may seem challenging due to its gradual nature, it is a treatment that gains satisfaction with the results obtained. As a matter of fact, this is the basis of the fact that it is an extremely popular application all over the world. It is a favorite application especially for those who are looking for a solution for missing teeth and do not want to use dentures.

Lifespan of a Dental Implant

In general, the implant life span of 25-30 years with good care is shortened or prolonged by many factors. The aforementioned 25-30 years applies to the artificial tooth root, which is applied with a successful treatment plan and properly maintained. In addition, some people can use their implants for a lifetime with favorable health conditions, bone structure and proper care.

There is a misconception about the biocompatible artificial tooth root. It is thought that it will not decay and wear out. However, in the absence of good oral care, discomfort occurs in the gums and jawbone due to bacteria that multiply. These disorders shorten the life of the artificial root.

Keeping the dental implant tooth environment clean is extremely important for its life. In addition, avoiding consuming excessively hard crusted foods has a positive effect on tooth life. In addition, regular control is essential against diseases that may occur in the mouth. Thus, treatment can be done as soon as possible.

It should be known that there are many more factors that affect implant life. The person’s jaw structure, age and how successful the specialist is are among these critical factors. In addition, the quality of the material used is also extremely important. Therefore, it is critical to choose a dental clinic that has experience in this dental treatment and uses quality materials.

Vega Health Agency has dentists who specialize in dental implants and other dental treatments. At the first examination, the dentist determines which dental treatment is suitable for the patient and makes a joint decision with the patient. With its state-of-the-art technology devices and hygienic clinic, it makes its patients comfortable and reassuring. It makes long-lasting dental treatments with the selection of quality materials. It restores the smile that the person hesitates due to missing teeth.