What is a Dental Implant? Who Is It Suitable For and Who Is Not?
What is a Dental Implant? Who Is It Suitable For and Who Is Not?
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a screw-like structure, usually made of titanium, that is placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. These implants serve as a foundation for prosthetic teeth made of porcelain, zirconium, or other materials.
Thanks to its ability to offer a solution closest to natural teeth, implant treatment is highly advantageous both aesthetically and functionally. It does not damage neighboring teeth, is long-lasting, and supports the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
When Is Dental Implant Treatment Applied?
Implant treatment may not be suitable for everyone. However, in many cases, with proper planning and under professional supervision, it can be successfully implemented. Here are some common conditions where implants are recommended:
1. Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can affect both aesthetics and function. Difficulty in chewing may strain the digestive system. Additionally, missing teeth can cause speech problems, lack of self-confidence, and aesthetic issues affecting social life. Implant treatment offers an ideal solution in such cases.
2. Sufficient Jawbone Structure
Implants require adequate bone density and volume to be fixed in the jawbone. If the bone is insufficient, advanced surgical techniques such as bone grafting can be used to create a suitable base.
3. Good Oral Hygiene
Success in implant treatment is directly linked to oral hygiene habits. Regular brushing, flossing, and adherence to the dentist’s hygiene protocols play a major role in the longevity of the implant.
4. Special Situations Where Implants Are Used:
- When the back molars are missing
- When fixed dentures cannot be made
- When removable dentures are not preferred
- To prevent denture movement
- In completely edentulous jaws with weak bone structure
When Is Dental Implant Treatment Not Applied?
Implant treatment may not be suitable or safe for every patient. In some conditions, implant placement may be risky or may not yield the desired results. The following conditions generally make a person ineligible for implants:
1. Patients with Incomplete Jaw Development
In adolescents who haven't completed their growth, the bone structure is still developing, and implants are not recommended. Treatment should wait until growth is complete.
2. Heavy Smokers
Smoking negatively affects tissue healing in the mouth. It can slow down or even prevent the fusion of the implant with the bone.
3. Patients Who Have Received Radiotherapy to the Head or Neck Area
Radiotherapy may weaken the bone and significantly delay healing, reducing the success of implant integration.
Implant Treatment in Special Health Conditions
Certain chronic diseases or specific health conditions do not completely prevent implant treatment but require more care and discipline. In such cases, a multidisciplinary approach should be taken before starting treatment:
- Diabetes: Implants can be placed in patients with well-controlled blood sugar. Healing must be closely monitored.
- Hypertension: Implants can be applied in patients with controlled high blood pressure.
- Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with clotting problems must consult a hematologist before treatment.
- Autoimmune Diseases: With careful planning, implants can also be applied in conditions such as lupus where the immune system is overactive.
- Bisphosphonate Use: Since these medications (used in osteoporosis treatment) may cause healing problems in the jawbone, professional evaluation is essential before implant placement.
How Soon Should Implants Be Placed After Tooth Loss?
Delaying implant placement after tooth loss may lead to bone resorption in the jaw. As the bone volume decreases, it may no longer provide a suitable base for implants. Therefore, timely intervention is crucial to preserve bone mass and increase the success rate of the treatment.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
- Natural Appearance: Implants closely resemble natural teeth and significantly improve the aesthetics of one’s smile.
- Preserve Natural Teeth: Unlike bridges, implants do not require cutting or support from neighboring healthy teeth.
- Prevent Bone Loss: Functioning like a natural root, implants prevent bone resorption.
- Stable and Comfortable: Implants offer more stability and comfort compared to removable dentures.
- Long-Lasting: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
A Powerful Solution for Every Tooth Loss
Implant treatment offers an effective solution for restoring missing teeth both aesthetically and functionally. However, since every individual has a unique oral structure, the procedure should be planned personally. That’s why the first and most important step for those with missing teeth is to consult an experienced dentist for a comprehensive evaluation.
Remember, timely implant treatment not only restores your dental health but also enhances your overall quality of life.
