What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of titanium, designed in the form of a screw or root, that is placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Implant treatment is a suitable option for patients with tooth loss. Using this method, fixed or removable prostheses can be made depending on the condition to replace the missing teeth. Since dental implants stimulate the jawbone after placement, they help prevent bone loss that could occur over time. Unlike bridge treatment, which requires trimming the adjacent teeth to replace a missing tooth, dental implants do not require such procedures on surrounding teeth. As a result, dental implant-supported prostheses provide longer-lasting, better-functioning, and more natural-looking results.

How is Dental Implant Treatment Performed?

The treatment generally involves the following steps:

1. Evaluation of General Health:
   The patient’s overall health condition is assessed. Bone structure is examined using two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional imaging methods to determine suitability for the implant. A personalized treatment plan is created based on the number and location of missing teeth. Additionally, the patient’s general dental and gum health must be sufficient to ensure the long-term success of the implant.
2. Surgical Procedure:
   • Dental implant placement is typically performed under local anesthesia. In some cases, depending on the patient’s condition, conscious sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
   • After administering local anesthesia, an incision is made in the gum to expose the bone and prepare the implant socket.
   • The implant socket is prepared in the most suitable position for both the health of the implant and surrounding tissues, as well as for prosthetic compatibility. The implant is then placed into the socket, and the gum is sutured over it. The implant is left to integrate with the bone for an average of three months.
3. Healing and Prosthetic Placement:
   • Once the implant has fused with the bone, a healing cap is placed during a second minor surgery to shape the gum tissue around the implant.
   • After the gums heal, the implant’s measurement is taken using digital or conventional methods and sent to the laboratory.
   • Following several fitting stages, the implant abutment is screwed into place, and the prosthesis is either cemented or screwed onto the abutment.

This procedure provides a long-lasting, functional, and natural solution for tooth loss.