Implant Treatment

Missing teeth is a problem that adversely affects the person not only in terms of oral and dental health, but also in terms of aesthetics. Implant treatment has been developed in addition to traditional bridge and prosthesis treatments as a result of the contribution of technological developments to dental procedures. One of the most important advantages of implant treatment is that adjacent teeth do not need to be cut. Since implanted teeth act as root teeth, patients can easily eat after implant treatment, just as they do with their natural teeth.

What is Implant Treatment?

Implant treatment is a dental procedure applied to eliminate one or more missing teeth in the mouth. As part of the treatment, screw-shaped artificial tooth roots called implants are placed in the jaw. Implant treatment is completed by placing dental prostheses on titanium screws.

How is Implant Treatment done?

Implant treatment can be performed under local or general anesthesia. After the patient's jawbones and remaining teeth are measured, titanium screws with artificial tooth roots that support the prosthesis to be inserted are placed in the patient's jawbone. This process is completed in 10 to 25 minutes on average for each implant.

In order for the implant to function as real tooth root where they are placed, they must fuse with and adapt, in order words, implant to the jawbone. This period usually takes 3 to 6 months, and can vary from person to person. When the desired implantation is achieved, the patient becomes ready for the final stage of the treatment. This also indicates that the implants have gained the strength to support the prosthesis to be placed on them. Depending on how strong the patient's bone structure is, recovery time will be less and the dentures will be prepared in less time.

If the bone structure of the patient is not strong and their gums are not healthy, it may be necessary to use additional bone surgery procedures. For implant treatment, the bone must have sufficient strength and size. Otherwise, bone powder supplementation can be used under local anesthesia to increase bone height and thickness. An average of 6 months is required for the bone powder to take effect and for the jawbone to achieve sufficient strength to support the implant.

Post Implant Treatment

In order to stop the bleeding and stimulate coagulation following implant procedure, gentle pressure should be applied with a soft sterile pad. The patient should refrain from spitting and rinsing the mouth during the first 24 hours to ensure a healthy and quick recovery process.

Eating and drinking should be avoided for 2 hours following implant treatment. Hot foods and drinks should not be consumed within the first 24 hours. Similary, the patient should refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking cigarettes. Medication prescribed by the dentist should be used accordingly.