A dental implant is a treatment option for people who miss one or more teeth. It can help restore their ability to smile, speak, and chew comfortably.
Dental implants may be a good option for:
-Individuals who need to replace a single missing tooth
-Patients who need to replace multiple missing teeth with an implant-supported bridge or single crowns
-Patients who need to replace a complete denture with a bridge supported by several implants
It is important to note that dental implants require sufficient bone density and volume in the jaw to be successful. A bone graft may be needed before getting dental implants if you do not have enough bone in your jaw. It is always best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if dental implants suit you.
The dental implant treatment process typically involves the following steps:
-Implant placement: This procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and involves placing the implant into the jawbone.
-Osseointegration: After placing the implant, it takes about two months to fuse with the jawbone. This process is called osseointegration.
-Preparation of custom-made crowns: The dentist will take impressions of your teeth and create custom-made crowns attached to the implants. This process may take 3-7 days.
-Crown placement: Once the crowns are ready, they will be placed on the implants in a separate procedure that typically takes 1-2 hours.
It is important to note that the total treatment time may be longer if you need bone grafting before getting dental implants. Additionally, the implant and gums site will need time to heal after the implant placement procedure (about one week). The overall healing time after the implant session is typically 4-6 months.
It is possible to get dental implants abroad, although it is essential to do thorough research and carefully consider all factors before making a decision. Some things to consider when getting dental implants abroad include the following:
-Minimum stay: Depending on the location, you may need to stay for a minimum of 1-2 days for the initial implant placement and 3-7 days for the second visit when the crowns are placed.
-Several trips: You must make at least two trips to complete the dental implant treatment process.
-Quality of care: It is crucial to ensure that you receive high-quality care from experienced professionals. Research the credentials and reputation of the Clinic or dental practice you are considering.
-Costs: Getting dental implants abroad may be less expensive than in your home country, but it is essential to consider all expenses, including travel, accommodation, and follow-up care.
-Language barriers: All our dentists and assistant in our Clinic can speak English. You don't need a translator for communication.
-Follow-up care: It is essential to consider whether you will have access to follow-up care after returning home.
Dental implants are a treatment option for replacing missing teeth. They are made of titanium or zirconia and consist of three parts: the implant device, the crown or denture, and the abutment. The implant device is placed in the jawbone and is a substitute for the missing tooth root. The abutment connects the implant device to the crown, bridge, or denture.
To place a dental implant, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue and carefully place the implant device into the jawbone. The abutment is then screwed into the implant, and the tissue is sutured closed. The implant is left to heal and become stable, which typically takes about four months. During this time, the implant fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration. Once the implant fully integrates with the jawbone, the crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment.
-Consultation and planning: During the consultation visit, the dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and discuss your treatment options. If you proceed with dental implants, the dentist will create a treatment plan and determine whether you need bone grafting or other preparatory work before the implant can be placed.
-Preparatory work: If bone grafting or other initial work is needed, it will be done at this stage.
-Implant placement: During the implant placement procedure, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue and carefully place the implant device into the jawbone. The implant will be left to heal and become stable, which typically takes about four months.
-Osseointegration: During the osseointegration period, the implant fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration.
-Attachment of the abutment: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the dentist will attach the abutment to the implant. The abutment is a small connector piece that will hold the crown, bridge, or denture in place.
-Placement of the crown, bridge, or denture: After the abutment is attached, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and create a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture. Once it is ready, it will be attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant treatment process.
-Consultation and planning: The dentist will evaluate your mouth and determine if you need preparatory work, such as bone grafting, before placing the implant.
-Preparatory work: If bone grafting or other initial work is needed, it will be done at this stage.
-Implant placement surgery: The implant device is placed in the jawbone, and the gums are sutured closed over the implant.
-Osseointegration: The implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This typically takes about four months.
-Attachment of the abutment: The abutment is a small connector piece attached to the implant.
-Placement of the crown, bridge, or denture: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is created and attached to the abutment.
It is essential to follow your dentist's instructions for aftercare, including practicing good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments, to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.
Several different types of dental implants are available, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are a few examples:
-Bego implants: These implants are made of pure titanium and are designed for suitable compatibility with the human body. They have a unique shape that helps ensure good stability after restoration.
-Straumann Zinedent implants: These implants are made of titanium and are designed for an immediate restoration.
-Zirconia implants are made of zirconia, a solid and biocompatible material. They are a good option for people with allergies to metals or who want a more esthetically pleasing option.
-Mini implants: Mini implants are smaller than traditional implants and are often used to support the minor restoration, such as single crowns or dentures. They may be a good option for people with thin jawbones or limited space in the mouth.
It is always best to consult a dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best type of implant for your needs.
After the dental implant, you may experience discomfort or pain once the anesthesia wears off. You may also have some swelling and bruising in the gum tissue. Your dentist will recommend a soft-food diet during the healing period, which typically takes about four months.
After the healing period, you will need to return to the dentist for follow-up visits. These visits may involve taking impressions of your teeth to create custom-made crowns for your implants and testing the fit and feel of the crowns in your mouth. Once the crowns are ready, they will be attached to the implants. You should be able to resume your normal activities right after the crown placement procedure. After the dental implant, you may experience discomfort or pain once the anesthesia wears off. You may also have some swelling and bruising in the gum tissue. Your dentist will recommend a soft-food diet during the healing period, which typically takes about four months.
After the healing period, you will need to return to the dentist for follow-up visits. These visits may involve taking impressions of your teeth to create custom-made crowns for your implants and testing the fit and feel of the crowns in your mouth. Once the crowns are ready, they will be attached to the implants. You should be able to resume your normal activities right after the crown placement procedure.
Once the dental implant treatment is complete (4 to 6 months after implantation), you should experience an improvement in your ability to smile, eat, and talk comfortably. The crowns should look and feel like natural teeth, and dental implants can be a durable and long-lasting solution with proper oral hygiene. In addition, the osseointegration process can stimulate the jawbone's growth, making the area more muscular and healthier. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to ensure your dental implants' long-term success. This may include brushing, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
After a dental implant procedure, following your dentist's instructions for aftercare is essential to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some general guidelines for aftercare:
-Swelling: You may experience swelling at the surgical site. To manage this, you can apply ice packs to the area for the first 36 hours after the procedure.
-Bleeding: It is normal to experience some bleeding after the procedure, but if it is excessive, you should contact your dentist. Place a sterile gauze piece between your teeth for about 30 minutes to help stop the bleeding.
-Pain medication and antibiotics: You may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to help manage discomfort and prevent infection. It is essential to take these medications as directed by your dentist.
-Physical activity: It is best to avoid strenuous physical activity, including exercise, for a few days after the procedure to help reduce the risk of bleeding.
-Dentures and prosthetics: If you wear them, you should avoid using them for at least ten days after the procedure to allow the implants time to heal. Using dentures or prosthetics too soon can pressure the implants and disrupt the healing process.
It is always best to follow your dentist's instructions for aftercare to ensure the best possible outcome. Do not hesitate to ask your dentist for guidance if you have any questions or concerns.
After a dental implant procedure, it is essential to follow a specific diet to help ensure proper healing. Here are some general guidelines for the diet after a dental implant procedure:
Liquids and pureed food: For the first few days after the procedure, it is best to stick to beverages and pureed foods to allow the surgical site to heal.
Transition to solid food: You can gradually transition to solid foods over the next few weeks. It is essential not to skip meals and to eat a well-balanced diet to promote healing.
Avoid hot foods: It may take a few days for the sensation in your tongue to return, so it is best to avoid hot foods until you can comfortably eat them.
Oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene after the procedure is vital. This includes brushing and rinsing at least twice a day.
Your dentist may provide additional specific instructions for your diet after the procedure, so it is essential to follow their guidance. Do not hesitate to ask your dentist for advice if you have any questions or concerns.
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves placing synthetic bone material in areas where there is not enough natural bone to support a dental implant. It may be necessary if you do not have sufficient bone mass or density in your jaw to support an implant. Bone grafting can take several months to heal and may be done simultaneously with implant surgery if only a minor graft is needed. A panoramic dental x-ray and a CT scan can help determine whether bone grafting is necessary for implant placement.
In some cases, a sinus lift may also be necessary for conjunction with bone grafting. A sinus lift involves adding bone between the upper jaw and the maxillary sinuses (near the nose) and moving the sinus membrane upward to make room for the bone. This procedure may be necessary if there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw to support the implant.
Dental implants are not suitable for everyone. Here are some factors that may make you ineligible for dental implants:
Advanced gum disease or periodontal disease: Dental implants may not be a good option for you if you have progressive gum disease or periodontal disease.
Certain medical conditions: If you are taking steroids, undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, have diabetes, uncontrolled coagulation disorders, osteoporosis, or a weakened immune system, you may not be a good candidate for dental implants.
Severe tooth decay: If you have serious tooth decay, you should address this issue before considering dental implants.
While the success rate for dental implants is generally high (up to 98%), there are some potential risks and side effects. These include infection, nerve damage, and allergic reactions to the metal used in the implant. Dental implants can last for about 40 years on average, with a success rate of 95% over 50 years of use. Cases of failure are rare but may occur due to an allergic reaction to the metal used in the implant. It is always best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if dental implants suit you.