Oral Implantology

When Are Implants Applied?

Implants are applied in cases of a single missing tooth, unilateral or bilateral natural tooth loss, to support a small number of remaining natural teeth, or in patients who have lost all of their natural teeth. Patients who have lost their natural teeth for any reason wish for the treatment process to be short and for their new teeth to imitate natural teeth as closely as possible once it is complete. Particularly in the lower jaw, where bone loss is extensive, a total denture without implant support will have poor retention. Patients complain of such a denture constantly moving in their mouth. At this point, the best solution the dentist can offer the patient is the ‘implant’. In single tooth losses, implant application allows a fixed prosthesis to be placed without touching the healthy natural teeth adjacent to the gap.

Is the Amount of Existing Bone Important for Implant Applications?

The amount of bone the patient has is very important for implant application. In patients with extensive bone destruction, the bone volume must be increased by adding bone, known as ‘bone augmentation’. Various procedures are performed for this purpose. Today, very successful results are achieved with physicians who have the correct indication and good training.

How Long Does Implant Treatment Take?

The patient to receive an implant is first evaluated clinically and radiographically. As a result of these evaluations, the type, diameter and length of the implant to be applied, and the type of prosthesis, are decided. Accordingly, depending on the different implant and prosthesis types, the treatment duration may vary between one day and six months. With conventional implants, it should be expected that the implants will fuse with the bone (osseointegration) for about four months in the lower jaw and six months in the upper jaw after the operation. This period is called the ‘healing period’, and a temporary prosthesis may be made so that the patient is not left without teeth. Once the healing period is complete, the prosthesis phase begins, and the planned fixed or removable prosthesis is fitted to the patient.

What Should Be Considered After Implant Surgery?

The operation is performed under local anaesthesia. After the operation, it generally proceeds without problems with the use of painkillers for one to two days and the application of ice. Stitches are removed after 7-10 days. During this period, patients are advised to feed on liquids and soft foods.

Who Cannot Have Implants?

• Implants should not be applied to pregnant and postpartum women.
• Individuals with severe systemic disease and patients with hypertension should be evaluated individually.
• Patients with diabetes should be carefully evaluated. However, implants can be applied to diabetic patients whose condition is under control.
• It is known that implant success decreases in people who smoke.
• In those who have the habit of grinding their teeth at night (bruxism), implants should be applied after this condition has been controlled.