Dental implants are currently the most frequent method of replacing missing teeth. Because they are inserted directly into the bone, they behave just like a normal tooth and can be used as such.
Even from an aesthetic point of view, an experienced dentist can restore the beauty of a lost smile.
Why are dental implants so valuable?
Dental implants are usually made of titanium, a highly resistant metal, and a ceramic or zirconium part called a crown fixed to the implant itself by the prosthetic support. The titanium implant is inserted directly into the bone, in the form of a metal screw, which acts as the root, and a crown is fixed on it.
Both titanium and ceramics are not materials selected at random. Because of their chemical properties that make them compatible with the tissues of the human body, both are highly valued in medicine. They do not cause allergies, and while the patient does not suffer from serious diseases of the bone system, they are a reliable method of replacing lost teeth.
Also, properly maintained, the implant can last as long as natural teeth. In addition, caring for it does not include special oral hygiene, but only compliance with the basic rules, namely the daily brushing of teeth, dental floss and mouthwash.
What does the placement of a dental implant involve?
The process by which a dental implant is placed can vary from patient to patient. Therefore, consultation with an experienced dentist is crucial. In general, if complications do not arise, the medical procedure is carried out as follows:
In the first phase, it is necessary to carry out dental X-ray and medical examinations according to the doctor’s indications. Based on them, the dentist will determine whether the patient is suitable for the placement of a dental implant;
Then, if the dentist decides that the dental implant has a chance of success, the next step is the medical procedure itself, which is performed under local anaesthesia. At this point, the dentist will make an incision in the gum to expose the bone and insert the titanium piece into it;
After the implant is placed, in most cases, the dentist will insert a treatment screw to protect the internal thread. This step is necessary to give the gums the necessary time to heal.
Once the gums heal, the implants are exposed, the healing screw is removed, a special prosthetic impression is taken, metal superstructures called abutments are mounted to the implants, and the crown made together by the dentist and his dental technician is mounted on them.
The connection between the titanium screw and the dental crown is made using the prosthetic support made of metal.
After treatment, the presence of an implant also includes periodic dental examinations. In case of infection, the chances of success of the implant decrease.
When is it time to consider placing a dental implant?
When the growth process is complete and the bones no longer grow, any adult can discuss with their dentist the possibility of replacing their missing teeth with dental implants. In most cases, if the person who wants an implant is not a smoker and does not suffer from diabetes or osteoporosis, there are no contraindications to the placement of a dental implant.
What is the cost of a dental implant?
The price of a dental implant depends largely on the quality of the brands preferred by the patient.
The only person who can make an accurate calculation is the dentist. After the X-ray images and the necessary analyses, he can determine if an additional bone graft is needed and can explain the benefits of each type of implant so that the patient can make an informed choice.
