What are dental implants?
Dental implants are biologically friendly medical screws made of titanium that are surgically placed in the jaw to replace missing teeth. These implants provide a stable foundation for dental crowns, restoring both function and aesthetics. The success of a dental implant treatment depends on several factors, including the choice of quality materials, sterile clinical conditions, and treatment planning by a specialist in dental surgery.
What are the parts of dental implants?
Dental implants consist of the implant itself, which is surgically placed in the jaw, the substructure that connects the implant to the crown, and the dental crown that is placed on top to create a natural-looking tooth.
Is it possible to get dental implants on the same day of the visit?
In some cases, it is possible to receive dental implants on the same day of the visit if certain conditions are met. These include good overall health, sufficient bone volume, absence of infection, and operable bone volume in specific regions. However, if these conditions are not met, the implant placement may be delayed for approximately 2-6 months to allow for proper bone healing.
How long does a dental implant treatment typically take?
The healing period of 3 months is necessary for the process of osteointegration, where the dental implants fuse with the surrounding bone. This ensures the long-term stability and success of the implants. The duration of a dental implant treatment can vary depending on the number of implants needed. On average, each implant placement takes about 10-15 minutes, with a total treatment time ranging from 45-60 minutes for a plan consisting of 4 implants.
How fast can I get back my teeth after implant treatment?
While the average healing process of around 3 months for the osteointegration of dental implants is necessary, it is possible to attach a temporary set of teeth on the same day as the surgery. Immediate loading or fixing temporary teeth on the implants right after surgery, can be achieved if the implants exhibit sufficient stability upon placement. This allows patients to have functional teeth and a bright smile during the healing period.
Will I be without teeth if my bones are not strong?
Concerns about missing teeth and the fear of not having teeth or an aesthetically pleasing smile can be addressed during dental implant treatment. While the full integration of dental implants with the bone takes approximately 3 months, temporary partial dentures can be provided to compensate for missing teeth during this healing period. This ensures that patients can maintain their smile while waiting for the final dental crowns.
A dental implant is the most natural replacement for a damaged or missing tooth.
What are the phases of a dental implant treatment? Are implants painful?
The phases of a dental implant treatment involve evaluating the patient’s health conditions, diagnosing the implant site, explaining the treatment plan, preparing the clinic under sterile conditions, administering local anesthesia, performing the implant surgery, allowing for a healing period of 3 months, and finally, preparing and placing the dental crowns. There will be no sensation of pain during and after the local anesthesia. For our patients that can’t tolerate even the awareness of dental surgery, there is an option to perform the dental implant treatment under general anesthesia or sedation. Following implant surgery, appropriate medications will be provided to manage any discomfort. Typically, the first few days after the surgery may involve just mild pain and swelling related to the procedure.
How many dental implants do I need?
The number of dental implants needed is determined based on the specific case and the condition of the patient’s teeth. While a single implant can replace one missing tooth, multiple implants may be required for multiple missing teeth. The decision on the appropriate number of implants is made considering factors such as bone quality and patient preferences.
Are implants better than natural teeth?
In comparison to natural teeth, dental implants do not develop cavities or cause tooth-related pain. However, proper oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of dental implants and preventing issues with the tissues surrounding them.
How successful are implant treatments?
Although rare, dental implant failure can occur. We consider an implant as a failure when it is unable to heal during the 3 months osteointegration period. Generally, failure of an implant is not accompanied by adverse side effects and is usually discovered during the stage of making the final crown. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions and maintain good oral hygiene to limit the low probabilities of failure.
What must I be aware of after implant surgery?
After the surgery, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene, avoid tobacco use, and follow post-operative instructions provided by the dentist. If any concerns or complications arise, it is important to contact the dental clinic for immediate assistance.
Minor bleeding after dental implant surgery is normal and expected to resolve within 24 hours if post-operative instructions are followed correctly. Temporary numbness around the chin area may occur due to the proximity of nerves to the implant site, but this sensation should subside within 1-4 weeks.
How much do implants cost in 2023?
The cost of dental implants depends on various factors such as the quality of materials and the experience of the specialist. Prices can range from approximately $100 to $450 per implant. It is important to consider the reputation and history of the implant brand when choosing the best dental implants.
When were implants discovered?
The history of dental implants dates back thousands of years, but modern dental implant techniques and technology have developed since the 1950s, with ongoing advancements in the field.
