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What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is made of titanium that is biocompatible, i.e. when placed into the bone tissue, this material will form an intimate bond to bone or osseointegrate with the surrounding bone tissue. Titanium implants have been used since 1960’ies and currently we have almost 50 years of evidence-based material from clinical studies that shows it to be a safe method with a good prognosis for replacing lost teeth.

Implants consist of a titanium screw that is usually 8–10 mm long and 3.5–4.5 mm wide. There are also various shorter/longer and narrower/wider diameter implants to accommodate different anatomic requirements. A screw is placed into the jawbone and after osseointegration it will replace the root of a missing tooth. A special attachment element called abutment is placed on the implant. This will link the screw attached to the bone and the tooth crown in the oral cavity (a single crown or as part of a bridge) or support a removable denture.

Who is suitable for dental implants?

  • Growing jawbone: since the dental implant will ossify in the jaw, the bone must have finished developing (not suitable for use in people under 18 years of age).
  • The mouth must be healthy: all cavities, infections under the roots and inflammations of the gum and tooth attachment tissues must be treated beforehand. If implants are placed in the mouth of a patient with untreated periodontal disease, there is a very high risk of infection spreading from the gum pockets of the existing teeth to the area around the implant, which can lead to bone loss and implant loss.
  • Poor oral hygiene: home hygiene practices should be reviewed with the dentist before implants are placed. The long-term success of the treatment depends on good oral hygiene and plaque control. Regular check-ups and cleanings after implant placement are necessary to assess the condition of the gums and the bone around the implant and to prevent complications as early as possible.
  • General health problems: diabetes that is not under control (increased risk of infection and poorer recovery after the procedure); blood clotting problems; certain bone diseases; immune deficiency; drug use.
  • Smoking:  smoking alters the body’s immune and inflammatory response, and studies have shown that smokers have poorer post-operative recovery and a higher risk of implant loss compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking significantly increases the likelihood of successful implant treatment.

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Read more about our other dental treatment services here.

Read more about oral health here.