WHAT IS AN IMPLANT?
Dental implants are man-made tooth roots shaped like a screw which are inserted in the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. Because titanium is considered a part of the body by the jaw bone, dental implants are made of titanium. That is why the success rate of implants, which are compatible with human tissue, is very high. With the help of implants, teeth are restored in a most suitable and natural way. One of the most important qualities of dental implants is that it is applied without preparation of the adjacent teeth. It is suitable for a wide range of patients, from the ones missing one teeth to the ones who are edentulous. After the mouth is rehabilitated with dental implants, the patients can continue to safely eat whatever they like. It doesn’t matter if the patients have lost their teeth recently or long ago, implants can be applied. Implants seem, feel and provide chewing function just as the natural teeth.
HOW IT IS APPLIED?
Planning is an important part of implant treatment. A thorough intraoral examination is required which helps to decide on the locations of the implants. All of the images and photos before the treatment help the treatment procedure. Computer technology ensures the following of the implant treatment perfectly. After transferring the tomography images to the computer, the process of the treatment starts with the creation of 3D images of the complete face and bone, to which the implants will be applied.
Since the placement of the implant is a surgical procedure, the quality of the materials used, the sterilization of the environment and providing the hygienic conditions are crucial. Implant operation can be done under local anesthesia or sedation, depending on the patient’s preference. The operation takes 45mins-1 hour depending on the number of implants. After one week post-op, the patient must be seen in order to check the operation site and to remove the sutures. Usually in 2-3 months, depending on the condition of the implant and the bone, it is expected for the implant to fuse to the bone. After the waiting period, the restoration can be made. During this time temporary restorations can be used.
Implant procedures are painless. Some pain is expected postoperatively. That is why the patients can take the painkiller and antibiotics that the dentist prescribes.
ADVANTAGES OF IMPLANT TREATMENT
Implant supported restorations help to achieve better chewing and talking functions. The most important advantage is the prevention of bone loss caused by the loss of teeth.
Implants are the closest structures to natural teeth.
With implants, treatment is made on the necessary site without operating on other teeth. A fixed restoration can be made to the edentulous patients.
Besides better esthetics, implant-supported restoration help keeps better oral hygiene. High esthetic results have positive effects in boosting self-confidence and having a happier daily life.
AFTER IMPLANT TREATMENT
Guidance of the dentist must be followed. The site must be padded for 30-40 mins. It is important, especially the first day after the operation, not to use mouth wash or spit. Some swelling is expected during the 2-3 days post-op. Patients must consume warm, soft food and apply ice to the area for 48 hours.
ORAL CARE WITH IMPLANTS
Implants can be cleaned with routine oral care equipment. Toothbrush, toothpaste/floss must be used as well as special kinds of floss, interproximal brushes/dental water jets, depending on the instructions of the dentist. It is beneficial to make semi-annual visits to the dentist after having implant treatment.