implant

The main philosophy of dental treatments is to first preserve the remaining tooth tissues and then rebuild the lost tissues; therefore, as long as a tooth can be preserved in any way, we dentists, as the main pillar of dental treatments, are obliged to preserve the teeth, and when a tooth cannot be preserved for any reason or has already been lost, the best replacement for a lost tooth is an implant. Implant treatment is a team treatment that is performed by a radiologist (to obtain a CT scan and complete examination of the remaining jaw bone), a gum surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon (for implant surgery), and a prosthetic specialist (to take an impression or scan of the implant and make a fixed or removable prosthesis based on the implant).
Many respected clients ask about the price of implant treatment, while the price of implant treatment is one of the last priorities in this treatment because the status of the space available to replace the missing tooth, the width, height and quality of the remaining bone, underlying systemic diseases such as diabetes, proximity to important parts of the mouth such as the nerve, are among the factors that determine the absolute possibility of replacing a tooth with an implant, while the cost is a relative factor and in many cases can be agreed upon through agreement on the type of implant, payment terms, etc.

Therapeutic Uses of Dental Implants

Dental implants have various uses, two of the most important of which are as an anchorage for orthodontic treatment and, more commonly, as a replacement or aid in replacing a missing tooth or teeth. In cases where a tooth is missing, it is usually replaced with an implant (if the missing tooth has multiple roots, more than one implant may be placed to replace it). However, for various reasons, including the need to maintain bone integrity around each implant fixture, when more than two teeth are missing side by side, an implant is not usually replaced for each missing tooth, and a number of teeth are replaced as bridges between other implants.

Implant Treatment Price

Many respected clients ask about the price of implant treatment upon arrival or even over the phone. However, the price of implant treatment is one of the last priorities in this treatment because the status of the space available to replace the lost tooth, the width, height and quality of the remaining bone, proximity to important parts of the mouth such as the nerve, the status of underlying diseases such as diabetes, etc. are among the absolute determining factors for the possibility of replacing teeth with implants, while the cost is a relative factor and in many cases can be agreed upon through agreement on the type of implant, payment terms, etc.

The appropriate age for implant treatment

Implant treatment should be performed after the completion of craniofacial growth (head and face bones), which is approximately the same as 18 years of age and is not recommended before that. There is no upper age limit, and if other conditions are suitable, implant treatment can be used at any age over 18 years of age, and there are patients who have had successful implant treatment by our team at the age of 78 and 83.

Criteria for determining implant quality Standard criteria can be used to review, compare, and select the implant to be used; two of these standards are the European Union standard mark, CE, and the US Food and Drug Administration mark, FDA, which are included on the implant packaging. Another thing to consider is the company importing the implant, which must be reputable and can be trusted for future services and the supply of needed parts; Thus, a very good implant system imported and serviced by an unreliable company is actually worth less than a good implant imported and serviced by a reputable company;
And the result of treatment with a good implant system performed by a specialized team of experienced surgeons and prosthetists (who have both expertise and experience) is usually better than treatment with a very good implant system performed by a general practitioner with little experience, because every treatment, no matter how simple, has its own specific points that require expertise and experience to know and follow.
It should be noted that in our specialized center, surgery is performed by a gum and implant surgeon or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and the impression (digital scan) and prosthesis fabrication are performed by a prosthetist and a specialized laboratory.

Dental Treatments & Implants: Private Office or Clinic?

The common trend among the vast majority of dentists is that in the early years of their career, they work in clinics to gain experience and introduce their good work. As I (Dr. Julai) worked in various clinics for many years and gained good experience, but the important point in this regard is that most of our working life in clinics is not long, and when we open an office, we usually allocate our time to a private office; thus, a patient who is treated by a good doctor in Keeling is very likely to be excused in future visits by the absence of their doctor in the clinic and must be treated by another colleague, which is usually not very pleasant. On the other hand, many expensive materials and special equipment are not available in clinics and are only found in the office. In addition, the doctor's workload in the clinic is higher than the office workload, which causes the doctor to unintentionally spend less time in the clinic than in the office with the patient, which certainly affects the outcome of the treatment. Dental implants are an advanced and effective medical method for replacing lost teeth. In this method, a small screw called an implant is placed in the jawbone and acts as the base for the artificial tooth. Dental implants are known to create a fusion with the jawbone, which is known as osseointegration.
This method will allow the restoration of missing teeth without having to rely on the surrounding teeth, and also prevents jaw bone loss. Dental implants allow people to regain the beauty and normal function of their teeth without chewing problems.
Dental implants can be placed in one or two stages and consist of various components such as an implant base, an abutment, and a crown. This method is one of the best options for replacing missing teeth and has many advantages and capabilities.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are a modern technology for replacing missing teeth that is considered the main choice for filling teeth. This method uses a small screw-shaped rod to be inserted into the jawbone during a specialized surgery. This rod is strongly connected to the bone and acts as the basis for installing an artificial dental crown.
In fact, we can say that the dental implant acts as the root of the tooth and supports the artificial dental crown. In this method, there is no need to rely on the surrounding teeth, the empty position; instead, the implant is firmly embedded in the bone.
This process involves several steps to fix the different parts of the implant in the jaw and install the artificial tooth on them. The implant looks similar to a natural tooth and creates a natural chewing sensation. This method helps to improve indigestion.
Dental implants are suitable for replacing missing teeth, or even all teeth. The implant can be fixed or removable. In both cases, the word "implant" is used, but in the latter case, it refers to the different parts of the implant, each of which has a separate function.

Advantages of Dental Implants

One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is that they preserve the bone in your jaw and prevent bone loss due to tooth loss (known as osteolysis). Another benefit of implants is that they do not require the removal of adjacent teeth to install a fixed prosthesis, and they help stabilize and strengthen the removable prosthesis by creating an overdenture (a removable prosthesis attached to the implant).
Dental implants are made of a titanium alloy that is resistant to decay and its high-quality type is stronger than natural teeth. If advanced techniques are used, implant treatment is performed in a short time with minimal pain and discomfort.
Compared to the repeated costs of fillings, root canals, and crowns over long periods, implant treatment may seem more cost-effective. This lifelong method can be used to maintain dental health.

Comparison of Implants vs. Bridges

One of the advantages of implants over the bridge method is that there is no need to use two healthy adjacent teeth as support for the artificial tooth. In the bridge method, these two teeth serve as support for the prosthesis, which may deteriorate over time, leading to problems and potential tooth loss. However, an implant connects the fixture directly to the jawbone, preventing damage to adjacent teeth. Additionally, implants help prevent bone resorption in the jaw, significantly reducing this issue.

In some cases, if the patient delays treatment or has issues such as cysts or tumors in the mouth, the available space for implant placement decreases, reducing the diameter and height of the jawbone. In such cases, the dentist can use bone powder, bone blocks, and membranes (biomaterials) to restore the bone structure, creating suitable conditions for implant placement. The treatment duration in these cases usually varies between 3 to 6 months, depending on the patient's condition and bone regeneration. X-ray imaging helps the dentist monitor the treatment progress and determine the optimal time for implant placement.

Care and Implant Procedure

The process of dental implant placement consists of several key steps:

1.Evaluation and Pre-preparation:

Before any procedure, a thorough assessment of the teeth is necessary to check for decay and other dental issues. Any tooth decay must be treated before placing an implant.

2.Implant Surgery:

The surgical placement of the implant is a crucial step. The implant is screwed into the jawbone, requiring the skill and experience of a qualified dentist.

2.Titanium Pin Integration:

After surgery, the titanium pin, known as the fixture, integrates with the jawbone. This process may take some time, and it is essential for the implant's stability.

3.Prosthetic Installation:

Once the implant is securely integrated with the jawbone, the specialist will use it as a base to attach the dental prosthesis. The prosthetic tooth is placed over the implant to function as a natural replacement.

4.Consultation with a Specialist:

Before proceeding with a dental implant, it is crucial to consult with a specialist to determine whether the implant method is suitable for your needs.

Careful execution and precise adherence to the outlined steps, along with collaboration with a skilled dental specialist, are essential for successful dental implantation.

Stages of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be performed in two primary ways:

1. One-Stage Dental Implant:

   • The implant base is first placed into the jawbone.

   • If possible, a healing cap is simultaneously attached to the implant screw, extending beyond the gumline.
   • After some time, the healing cap is removed, and the abutment is installed before impressions are taken.
   • Finally, after the dental prosthesis is prepared, it is placed onto the abutment.

2. Same-Day Dental Implant:

   • If the gum and jawbone are in excellent condition, the implant base can be placed on the same day the tooth is extracted.

   • Impressions are taken immediately, and a temporary prosthesis is placed on the abutment the same day.
   • This method is particularly suitable for front teeth.
   • After 2 to 3 months, the final crown is installed.

Both methods require a healthy gum and bone foundation and must be assessed by a dentist to determine the best approach for each patient.

Components of a Dental Implant

Fixture (Implant Base):

This acts as a replacement for the tooth root. It is placed into the jawbone and fused with the bone to provide a stable foundation for the prosthetic tooth.

Abutment:

The abutment is an intermediate piece made from materials like titanium, zirconium, or gold. It securely connects the crown to the implant base.

Crown (Prosthetic Tooth):

The crown is the final visible part of the implant. It is custom-designed to match the natural teeth, providing a functional and aesthetic replacement.

Pre-Surgical Steps for Dental Implants

Before implant surgery, several important steps must be taken:

Consultation and Preparation:

The dentist explains the procedure and prepares a dental record. A medical questionnaire is also provided, which should be filled out accurately. Any additional health conditions should be disclosed to the dentist.

Assessment of Gums and Teeth:

The gums and adjacent teeth must be examined for any infections or decay, which should be treated before the implant procedure.

Radiographic Scans:

Special X-ray scans such as CBCT or DVT are performed to determine the best implant location and size, as well as to examine nerves and sinus pathways.

Consultation with a Specialist Doctor:

If the patient has medical conditions like high blood pressure or a history of heart or brain issues, special medications may be required before or after surgery. Patients under medical supervision for underlying diseases should consult their physician.

These steps are crucial to ensuring a successful implant procedure and the best possible outcome.

Dental Implant Surgery Process

The duration and complexity of implant surgery depend on the number of implants being placed. For multiple implants, the procedure will take longer.

Local Anesthesia:

Implant surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, numbing the gums and target area completely. Patients remain awake during the procedure. Sedatives may be used to reduce anxiety.

Gum Incision and Bone Drilling:

The dentist makes an incision in the gum and drills a small hole in the jawbone, where the implant is placed.

Immediate vs. Delayed Implantation:

In certain cases, a damaged tooth can be extracted, and an implant placed in the same session (immediate loading). However, in other cases, a delayed approach is necessary. This means waiting 2-4 months for the lower jaw and 3-6 months for the upper jaw to heal before implant placement.

Final Prosthetic Placement:

After 2 to 4 months of initial surgery, the final prosthetic is prepared and placed. A temporary prosthetic may be used during the healing process to aid with chewing and aesthetics.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a viable option for many people, but certain factors should be considered:

Overall Health:

The patient should be in good general health, as overall well-being impacts implant success.

Jawbone Condition:

Sufficient and healthy jawbone is essential for implant placement. If bone loss is present, bone grafting may be required.

Post-Surgical Compliance:

Patients must follow all post-operative care instructions and maintain proper oral hygiene.

Tissue Health:

Healthy oral tissues are necessary for successful implant integration.

Age Consideration:

Implants are generally recommended for adults after full jaw development (typically after 16 years of age). However, in cases of tooth loss due to accidents, younger patients may also receive implants.

A consultation with a dentist is the best way to determine whether implants are the right choice based on individual oral health conditions.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are a precise and specialized medical procedure that allows patients to have high-quality, permanent artificial teeth, restoring the functionality of natural teeth. The process varies based on individual patient conditions, but with advancements in science and technology, dental implants have become an effective solution for improving oral health and quality of life.

With various designs and components, implants provide an excellent option for replacing missing teeth and enhancing the appearance and functionality of patients’ smiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small screw-like post placed inside the jawbone to serve as a foundation for an artificial tooth.

2.Why are dental implants used?
They are commonly used to replace missing teeth, providing a fixed and stable alternative to traditional dentures.

3.How do dental implants differ from conventional dentures?
Unlike traditional dentures, implants integrate with the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots, offering greater stability.

4.Does dental implant surgery require an operation?
Yes, implant placement involves a surgical procedure where the implant is inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia.

5.How long does it take for a dental implant to integrate?
The integration process usually takes between 3 to 6 months.

6.Do dental implants require special care?
Yes, just like natural teeth, implants require regular brushing, flossing, and periodic dental check-ups.

7.Are dental implants suitable for everyone?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for implants. Factors such as overall health, gum condition, and jawbone structure must be considered by a dentist before proceeding.