Services
Implantology
Implantology
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the upper or lower jaw and gradually integrates with the bone, serving as a support for a new tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Implant Placement
Before the surgical procedure, the surgeon selects the appropriate treatment for the patient. Antibiotics and corticosteroids are prescribed to each patient to prevent infections and reduce pain. Since implantology is a minimally invasive procedure, the patient can resume daily activities immediately after surgery and return to work the following day. However, minor swelling, which may last a few days post-surgery, is a common side effect.
The first phase involves inserting the implants in a short surgical procedure that is painless due to local anesthesia. In most cases, the procedure can be completed in a single visit.
The second phase is the healing period, during which osseointegration occurs. This process lasts 4 to 6 months for the upper jaw or 2 to 3 months for the lower jaw. During this period, the implants remain “invisible” as they integrate with the bone and are covered by soft tissue. For aesthetic reasons, a temporary prosthetic or bridge may be created.
The “implant exposure” phase occurs after the healing period, during which components are placed to serve as anchors for the final prosthetic restoration. The longevity of the implants depends on several factors, including the expertise of the surgical team, prosthodontist, and dental technician, as well as the patient’s adherence to post-operative care. All these elements must align to ensure the highest quality and durability of the implant.
Regular oral hygiene and check-ups with your specialist (1-2 times per year) are crucial for implant longevity. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which may cause gum recession, loss of bone support for the implant, and ultimately implant failure.
Patients with certain conditions, such as diabetes, may still receive bone implants if their condition is well controlled. Even in cases of osteoporosis, implant placement is possible unless the disease is in an advanced stage. Patients with cardiovascular diseases taking medications should consult a cardiologist. In general, age is not a contraindication for implantology as long as the patient is in good health.
It is not advisable to load implants with prosthetic restorations immediately after surgery, as this could compromise primary stability and healing.
Implant rejection is very rare but may occur due to the patient’s bone quality and overall health condition. The success rate of implants in our clinic exceeds the global average.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do implants last?
Dental implant longevity has been a subject of scientific research for nearly 30 years. Current findings indicate that, with proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants placed by an experienced implantologist can last a lifetime.
Can everyone get dental implants?
Generally, yes, except for individuals with rare medical conditions. Age is not a limiting factor: older patients have the same success rate as younger ones, provided they maintain good oral hygiene.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants?
Advantages:
- Implants allow the creation of fixed and aesthetically pleasing prosthetics, even in cases that would otherwise require removable dentures.
- Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require grinding down adjacent teeth.
- Implants prevent bone resorption and provide stable support for full dentures.
Disadvantages:
- The surgical procedure may be perceived as a drawback.
- The healing period required for implant integration can take time.
- Implant procedures may have higher costs compared to traditional dentures.
How long is the healing phase, and can I wear dentures during this period?
Healing time varies based on bone quality, implant size and number, and implant positioning. In optimal conditions, prosthetic restorations can be placed immediately. However, in most cases, implants require 6 to 12 weeks before being uncovered and loaded. If bone reconstruction is needed, healing may take up to 6 months. Temporary prostheses are typically provided before the final restoration.
Do all missing teeth need to be replaced with implants?
No, bridges on implants can replace multiple missing teeth. If all teeth are missing or need to be extracted, four implants (All-on-4 system) are usually sufficient to support a full-arch prosthesis with 12 teeth.
How much time off work is needed after implant surgery?
For a single implant, patients can usually resume work immediately. After complex procedures, 2-3 days of rest are recommended, avoiding strenuous activities.
Can implants be placed at any age?
For adolescents, implants are possible only after jawbone growth is complete, typically around 18 years of age. There is no upper age limit for adults, as older patients have the same success rate as younger ones. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential.
Can implants be placed in cases of severe bone atrophy?
Bone atrophy is often associated with osteoporosis, a condition common in postmenopausal women that reduces bone density. However, in most cases, implants can still be placed. If extensive bone loss has occurred, more implants may be needed, requiring longer healing times.
Bone atrophy may also result from periodontal disease or long-term tooth loss. If there is insufficient bone volume for implant placement, bone reconstruction techniques can be utilized.
Is smoking harmful to implants?
Heavy smokers (more than 10 cigarettes per day) have a higher risk of implant failure compared to non-smokers. Smoking interferes with local immune responses, reducing the body’s ability to fight bacteria, which increases the risk of bone loss around implants (peri-implantitis). In complex cases involving bone grafts, smokers face a significantly higher risk of complications. Therefore, we strongly recommend quitting smoking before undergoing implant treatment.
Can dental implants be rejected by the body?
Titanium is an extremely biocompatible material and does not trigger rejection reactions in the bone tissue. Titanium allergies are virtually non-existent. If an implant becomes loose or fails, it is typically due to excessive loading, insufficient healing time, poor bone quality, or bacterial infection, rather than biological rejection.
Are there differences in implant quality?
Many implant manufacturers exist, but only a few brands have undergone long-term scientific studies. We use Straumann, Nobel Biocare, and 3i implants, which offer scientific backing and long-term component availability. This ensures that replacement parts will still be available even decades after placement.
What are the hygiene requirements for implants?
The same oral hygiene principles apply to implants as to natural teeth: good oral hygiene is essential. To maintain cleanliness between implants, the use of dental floss and interdental brushes is recommended. Our specialists will advise and demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques to maximize implant longevity.
