Dental Implants

MacHealers - Dental Implants in Türkiye

Revitalize Your Smile with Dental Implants

The absence of teeth can result in both functional and aesthetic issues. Failing to address this issue can lead to the deterioration of healthy tissues and bone.

One effective solution to this problem is dental implants, which serve as replacements for natural tooth roots.

These implants are permanent fixtures made from biocompatible materials, enabling you to speak and eat just as you would with your natural teeth.

Understanding Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview

A dental implant is comprised of a titanium metal sleeve and an abutment, often featuring crowns, fixed dental bridges, or partial/complete dentures as the visible components.

During dental implant procedures, a dental surgeon skillfully drills a hole into the jawbone to precisely position the titanium screw, ensuring robust support for the artificial tooth.

This secure anchoring is achieved through a remarkable process called osseointegration, wherein bone tissue naturally grows around the implant.

The remarkable fusion of bone with the implant typically requires a span of 3 to 6 months. Once the implant is firmly integrated into the jawbone, the dentist proceeds to attach the abutment and place the dental crown on top.

Eligibility and Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a promising solution to various dental concerns. Here's a look at who can benefit from them and why:

• Replacing Removable Dentures: Dental implants are an excellent choice for individuals seeking to replace loose or uncomfortable removable dentures. Dentures that constantly shift or fall out during eating or speaking can lead to embarrassment, discomfort, sores, irritation, inflammation, pain, and even bone deterioration. Dental implants provide a stable, fixed solution, allowing for a confident smile and improved overall comfort.
• Missing Tooth Replacement: Tooth loss, whether due to trauma, disease, or decay, can have significant consequences. Neglecting dental treatment can result in bite collapse, tissue and bone atrophy, and alterations in jaw and facial shape. Dental implants not only replace missing teeth but also prevent bone loss and stimulate healthy jawbone formation. They are particularly well-suited for individuals with complete tooth loss, offering full-mouth restoration options.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Dental implants closely mimic the natural tooth structure, providing superior aesthetics. Patient satisfaction with implant aesthetics remains high, with nearly 85% reporting satisfaction even a decade after treatment.

Contraindications for Dental Implants

While dental implants offer remarkable benefits, certain conditions may contraindicate dental implant surgery. These include:

• Poor Oral Health: Dental implant surgery requires a healthy oral environment, including disease-free gums and teeth. Individuals with extensive oral health issues may not be suitable candidates.
• Heavy Smoking: Heavy smoking can hinder the healing process after implant surgery, increasing the risk of complications. Dentists often recommend smoking cessation before undergoing implant procedures.
• Cardiac Disease: Patients with severe cardiac conditions may not be suitable candidates for dental implant surgery due to the potential risks involved.
• Cancer: Individuals undergoing active cancer treatment or with a history of certain cancers may need to postpone dental implant surgery until they receive medical clearance.
• Immune Disorders: Conditions affecting the immune system can impact healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Patients with immune disorders should consult with their healthcare providers and dental professionals before considering dental implants.

The Dental Implant Procedure Explained

The dental implant procedure typically involves two visits to the dental clinic, with each stage carefully orchestrated for successful implantation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

First Visit: Implant Placement

• Your initial visit marks the beginning of your dental implant journey. The procedure is commonly conducted under local anesthesia, although IV sedation may be an option for some patients.
• The surgery unfolds in two main phases:
  • Incisions and Socket Preparation: The oral surgeon makes incisions in the gum tissue, gently lifting it to expose the underlying jawbone. A precise hole is drilled into the jawbone to accommodate the titanium implant screw. This screw serves as the artificial tooth's root.
  • Securing the Implant: The titanium screw is carefully inserted into the socket. The surgeon employs dissolvable stitches to close and suture the incision. This initial surgery typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours.
• After the implant placement, the essential healing process begins. It may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for osseointegration to occur, where the bone naturally fuses with the implant.

• The second visit is scheduled after the healing period, once osseointegration is expected to be complete.
• During this appointment, the surgeon accesses the implant by making an incision through the gum tissue. This step allows them to inspect the implant and assess whether osseointegration has successfully taken place. An additional X-ray may be required for a thorough evaluation.
• A mold or impression of the implant area is taken and sent to a dental laboratory. Skilled technicians craft the permanent crown(s) or dental bridge to ensure a precise fit and aesthetic appeal.
• Assuming everything is in order, the surgeon places a healing cap onto the implant, extending above the gumline. This cap remains in place for approximately 6 to 7 days, playing a pivotal role in shaping and preparing the gum tissue for the final tooth placement.
• Once the gum tissue has been properly conditioned, the surgeon proceeds to attach the abutment onto the implant. The abutment serves as the connecting piece between the implant and the permanent crown(s).
• In the final dental appointment, the custom-made permanent crowns or dental bridge is securely fitted onto the abutment, completing the dental implant process.

Additional Procedures for Dental Implants: Enhancing Your Smile

Achieving the best results with dental implants often involves additional procedures tailored to individual needs. These supplementary surgeries are essential for crafting a customized treatment plan. Here's an overview of some potential procedures:

1. Comprehensive Examination:

• To develop an effective treatment plan, your oral surgeon will thoroughly examine your oral health. This includes assessing the condition of your gums, teeth, and jawbone.
• Diagnostic tools like X-rays or CT scans may be utilized to gain insight into the health of these structures.

• Prior to dental implant placement, tooth extraction may be necessary. This step can be especially crucial when a tooth is infected.
• Appropriate treatment of the infection is a priority before proceeding with surgery.
• In some cases, patients may need to wait for about a month after tooth extraction before dental implants can be placed.

• Insufficient or weak bone tissue in the jaw can necessitate bone grafting prior to implant placement.
• Bone grafting serves to augment the bone's density and provide adequate support for the implants.
• The procedure, which typically takes 1-2 hours, can be performed using two main techniques:
  • Bone Graft Powder: This method employs a powder composed of organic or inorganic elements to augment the bone. In certain cases, tooth extraction and bone grafting using powder can be performed during the same visit.
  • Autografting: In autografting, the dentist harvests bone tissue from various areas within the mouth for grafting.
• Healing time following bone grafting generally ranges from 1-2 months before dental implant surgery can proceed.

• In instances where the upper jaw exhibits insufficient bone depth (less than 5mm) and to prevent the implant from encroaching on the sinus, a sinus lift surgery may be recommended.
• This procedure involves creating additional space and support for the implant.
• Sinus lifting can be combined with bone grafting and typically requires a healing period of 4-8 weeks before implant surgery can be performed.

Recovery and Long-Term Outcomes of Dental Implants

Recovering from a dental implant procedure is a relatively straightforward process, and the long-term results can be exceptional. Here's what you can expect in terms of recovery and the durability of your dental implants:

Immediate Post-Procedure:

• Dental implant surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return to your hotel on the same day.
• You can resume eating and drinking around 2 hours after the procedure.
• Resting for 1-2 days following surgery is advisable.
• Be sure to adhere to the prescribed painkillers and antibiotics provided by your dentist during this initial recovery phase.

• Full recovery following dental implant surgery can vary among individuals but may take at least a week.
• After each stage of the dental implant procedure, you can often return to work within 5 days.
• Specific return-to-work timing may depend on your job's physical demands, so it's recommended to discuss this with your surgeon.

• Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, providing you with a durable and permanent solution for tooth replacement.
• To ensure the long-term success of your implants, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Regular dental check-ups and diligent dental care are essential.
• Be mindful of the potential for physical trauma and gum disease to harm the implants. Protecting your oral health is key to preserving the integrity of your dental implants.

Caring for Your Dental Implants: A Guide to Aftercare

After your dental implant surgery, attentive aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the healing process and ensure the longevity of your dental implants:

Immediate Post-Surgery:

• Swelling and bruising are common after dental implant surgery. You can alleviate these symptoms by using ice packs on the affected area.
• Opt for cold foods like ice cream during the initial recovery phase to minimize discomfort.
• Expect some temporary hot and cold sensitivity around the implant site. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages during this time.
• Refrain from consuming hard foods such as nuts, candies, or apples, as they can potentially harm the implant site.
• If you are fitted with temporary dentures, maintain their cleanliness and hygiene throughout your recovery period.

• Smoking can impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It's advisable to abstain from smoking for at least a week after surgery.
• Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided, as it can also interfere with healing. Abstain from alcohol for at least five days post-surgery.

• If you have bruxism, a condition characterized by teeth grinding, it's essential to wear your mouthguard regularly to protect your dental implants from damage.

• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is paramount. Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly, floss daily, and incorporate mouthwash into your routine.
• Regular dental check-ups will help monitor the health and integrity of your dental implants.
• By adhering to these aftercare guidelines, you can promote the healing process, minimize discomfort, and safeguard the long-term success of your dental implants. Remember that proper care and attention will allow you to enjoy the benefits of your implants for years to come.