What Is Dental Implant Treatment?
Dental implant treatment is an effective method used to permanently replace missing teeth. Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth and provide a solution that is closest to natural teeth. Implant treatment restores the patient’s oral structure, improves aesthetic appearance, and restores chewing function.
What Is an Implant?
A dental implant is a screw-like device made of titanium or a titanium alloy. The implant is placed into the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. A prosthetic tooth is then mounted onto the implant, providing an aesthetic that harmonizes with the jawline.
What Are the Steps of Implant Treatment?
The steps of implant treatment are as follows:
- Examination and Planning: Before implant treatment begins, the dentist takes the patient’s medical history, performs an oral examination, takes X-rays, and creates a treatment plan.
- Implant Placement: The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and in most cases, sedation or general anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort.
- Healing Process: After the implant is placed, the jawbone begins to integrate with the implant — a process called osseointegration. This process usually takes several months and ensures a strong bond between the implant and the bone.
- Prosthesis Placement: Once healing is complete, the prosthetic tooth is attached to the implant. The prosthesis is either screwed or cemented onto the implant, providing an aesthetic result consistent with natural teeth.
Who Is Suitable for Implant Treatment?
Implant treatment is generally suitable for adults who have a strong jawbone structure and good oral hygiene. Individuals with missing teeth who are not suitable for other treatment options can benefit from implant therapy. However, each case is different, and it’s important to consult a dentist to determine whether implant treatment is appropriate.
What Are the Advantages of Implant Treatment?
- Provides a permanent solution.
- Offers the closest result to natural teeth.
- Does not harm other teeth and does not require trimming of neighboring teeth.
- Improves chewing function and enhances speech ability.
- Enhances aesthetic appearance and boosts self-confidence.
How Should Implant Care Be Done?
Proper implant care after treatment involves maintaining regular and effective oral hygiene. This includes brushing teeth, using dental floss, and attending regular dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene ensures the long-term success of the implant.
In conclusion, implant treatment is an effective and reliable method for permanently treating missing teeth. When properly planned and maintained, implants provide the closest solution to natural teeth and ensure long-term oral health for the patient.
Will I Feel Pain During the Implant Procedure?
Local anesthesia used during tooth extraction is sufficient for a painless procedure. The painkillers prescribed for the postoperative period are usually enough to ensure comfort. Most patients report feeling less discomfort than during a typical tooth extraction.
When Can the Prosthesis Be Made After the Implants Are Placed?
After implant placement, the fusion of the implant with the bone (osseointegration) usually requires a healing period of 3 to 6 months, depending on the patient’s age, bone quality, and systemic condition, if no advanced procedures were performed. Many factors determine the timing of the prosthesis placement on the implant. Your dentist will decide the right timing after a detailed evaluation, taking your expectations into account.
