What is an Implant? To Whom is Dental Implant Treatment Applied?
Rapidly advancing technology is benefiting modern medicine the most. Dentistry has also benefited greatly from this in recent years.
Missing teeth pose both health and cosmetic problems. The advancements in technology have helped dentistry. As an alternative to traditional bridges and dentures, implant dental treatment has been developed. So, what is an implant, how is implant treatment done, and who is it done for?
What is an implant?
Implants are titanium screws that are used in the treatment of missing teeth and are placed inside the jawbone. Dental prostheses are placed on these screws. The advantage of implant treatment over other treatments is that it does not harm adjacent teeth. In other words, neighboring teeth do not need to be cut. Implants serve as tooth roots, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably, just like natural teeth. Dental implant surgery also includes a surgical process that replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that closely resemble and function like real teeth, by replacing the tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts. Dental implants can offer a pleasing alternative to ill-fitting dentures or bridge teeth and are therefore preferred more than traditional methods like bridges.
How is implant treatment done?
Implant treatment is performed with the administration of mild sedation to the patient. Detailed examination and X-rays are necessary before the procedure. Measurements of the jawbones and remaining teeth are taken. There are two options for the placement of dental implants. In a single-stage procedure, a temporary abutment is attached after the implant is placed. In a two-stage procedure, the dental implant is covered with gum tissue after being placed and left to heal. Prosthetic abutments are then attached. In both cases, a temporary bridge is placed, and a healing period of 3 months for the lower jaw and 6 months for the upper jaw is expected. Sometimes, new teeth can be immediately placed on dental implants. With dental implants, the patient can smile and eat confidently.
Zirconium implants are a new generation of implants made from titanium to increase their resistance. They are particularly used to enhance durability in narrow jawbones. Apart from durability, zirconium implants have no difference from titanium implants.
Zirconium is also used in dental crowns. Zirconium closely resembles the natural tooth color and reflects light. Therefore, it is useful not only in terms of durability but also in terms of aesthetics. It does not cause wear and does not leave a metallic taste in the mouth. It does not undergo discoloration over time. It is not harmful to the body.
Orthodontic Treatment with Dental Braces
Dental braces consist of brackets placed on teeth with irregularities and misalignment, held together by wires. Dental braces are applied to individuals with gaps between their teeth, teeth misalignment, bite disorders, fractured teeth, and overlapping teeth. There is no specific age for orthodontic treatment with dental braces. The duration of treatment typically ranges from 18 to 24 months, but it can extend up to three years for severe jaw disorders. Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces can eat and drink almost anything, except for very sticky foods. However, they need to be extremely diligent about oral hygiene.
Gum Recession and Treatment
Gum recession refers to the exposure of the tooth root due to the receding of the gum tissue, which extends below the enamel layer. It can be caused by genetic factors as well as the presence of dental calculus, poor restorations, and excessive brushing of teeth. Signs of gum recession include bad breath, bleeding while brushing, swelling, and redness of the gums. Gum recession can also lead to tooth loss.
Various filling techniques are used in the treatment of gum recession. The tooth can be completely covered, and in more advanced cases, surgical methods may be employed. In surgical approaches, healthy tissue from the surrounding area is shifted to cover the exposed area or a graft taken from the palate is surgically attached to the affected area.
Implant Prices
It is not possible to provide a precise price for dental implant treatment, which is one of the most preferred dental treatment methods. The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the brand of implants used, the individual’s dental structure, and the number of missing teeth. Although implant brands serve the same function in terms of oral and dental health, the materials used, longevity, and the fact that many brands are imported from abroad contribute to price variations. To obtain accurate pricing information and answers to your specific questions, it is recommended to consult with our expert dentists.