Do you have a gap where a tooth is missing? Let's talk about dental implants!

Do you have a gap between your teeth that has come loose? When that happens, you feel a little scared and embarrassed even when you smile out loud or pose for a photo? Even when you eat, you can't chew properly on that side and it becomes uncomfortable. If you are facing this kind of problem, today we are going to talk about the best and long-term solution for it.

Simply put, what are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium or ceramic posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Think of it this way, just like your real teeth have a root, this is the new root of your artificial tooth. It is biocompatible and does not harm the tissues in your mouth.

This implant has three main parts:

1. Implant (Threaded post): This is the part that acts like the root of the artificial tooth and is surgically fixed inside the jawbone.

2. Abutment: This is a small connector. It is attached to the implant that was raised in the jawbone. It protrudes slightly above the gum line. This is the base for the new tooth to be raised.

3. Restoration: This is the tooth that we see on the outside. If it is a single tooth, we call it a crown . If several teeth are set together, it is called a bridge . Sometimes, even a complete set of teeth can be fixed on these implants. We call them dentures .

A missing tooth not only affects the appearance of your mouth, but also your mental health. It can reduce your confidence to socialize, smile, and talk. So this implant method can help you rebuild your smile and your self-confidence.

In what situations are dental implants needed?

There are several reasons why a tooth may be lost. Dental Implants are mainly used in such cases to replace missing teeth.

• Tooth extraction due to cavities.
• A tooth is broken or chipped in an accident.
• Loose teeth due to gum disease .
• Some people are born without some teeth. We call this condition ( Anodontia ) .
• Teeth become worn, damaged, and loose due to habits such as grinding your teeth in your sleep (Bruxism) .

How does the process of placing a dental implant happen?

Although this may vary slightly from person to person, let's look at the general process. This is something that happens in several stages.

1. Surgically placing the implant

This is the first step. Your dental surgeon will do this by:

• Numbness: First, you will be given an injection (anesthesia) to numb your gums. So you won't feel any pain. If you are nervous, you can talk to your doctor and get a mild sedative (sedation) if necessary.
• Gum incision: Next, a small incision is made in the gum where the implant is to be placed, exposing the underlying jawbone.
• Jawbone preparation: Next, a small hole is made in the jawbone using special instruments. The hole is gradually enlarged to accommodate the implant.
• Placing the implant: Now the implant is carefully inserted into the hole that was made and placed.
• Suturing: Finally, the gum is restored and closed with dissolvable sutures or regular stitches.

2. Healing time (Osseointegration)

This is the most important stage of the process. During this time, your jawbone grows around the newly placed implant and becomes fully integrated with it. This is called osseointegration.This is because the implant is firmly attached to the jawbone, like a real tooth root, without moving. This process usually takes about 3 to 9 months. This can vary depending on how quickly your body heals.

3. Installing the abutment and the final tooth

Once the jawbone is properly aligned with the implant, your doctor will place the small connector, called the abutment, on top of it. Then, your permanent denture (crown, bridge, or denture) will be placed on top of it. This usually takes about an hour, and may require minor surgery.

Does it hurt a lot when getting a dental implant?

No. Your gums will be numbed during the surgery , so you will not feel any pain. After the surgery, it is normal to experience some pain and swelling as the incisions heal. This can be easily controlled with painkillers (e.g. Paracetamol ) prescribed by your doctor.

What are the advantages of Dental Implants?

Compared to other methods of replacing a missing tooth, implants have many advantages. They provide a very similar experience to a real tooth.

Are there any risks or complications with this?

As with any surgery, there are some risks involved, but if performed by an experienced dental surgeon, the chances of complications are very low.

• Infection around the implant.
• Damage to nearby teeth or nerves.
• Delayed healing of the jawbone.
• Very rarely, an allergy to titanium can occur. (In such cases, a switch to a ceramic implant may be possible.)

It is normal to have some bleeding and swelling after surgery, but if you experience any unusual symptoms, notify your doctor immediately.

Who is not suitable for Dental Implants?

While this is a successful treatment for many people, it may not be suitable for some.

• For those under 18 years of age: Implants are usually not placed until the jawbone has fully developed.
• For smokers : Smoking can delay the healing process, increase the risk of infection, and increase the risk of implant failure.
• For those with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes .
• For those with severe gum disease (gum disease should be treated first).
• For those who don't take proper care of their oral health.
• For those whose jawbone has worn away too much and there is not enough bone to accommodate an implant (although sometimes this problem can be solved with a bone graft).