Implantology
There can be various reasons for tooth loss, but it’s essential to ensure their replacement. Restoring chewing function protects against many diseases caused by tooth loss. Facial harmony and a beautiful smile increase our self-confidence and comfort.
Dental replacements can be fixed (bridge, crown), removable (dentures), or their combinations. Many people have been wearing removable dentures satisfactorily for a long time, despite some patients being hesitant or unable to adapt to them. Occasionally, due to individual anatomical characteristics, a suitable and usable denture may not be feasible. Cemented bridge replacements require the presence of an adequate number and suitable positioning of abutment teeth.
Fixed replacements instead of removable ones
For example, in cases of posterior gaps—where only the front teeth are present, and the molars, the pillars, are missing—only removable dentures can be made. However, if implants, or implanted „artificial roots,” are placed in the missing molar areas, fixed replacements become an option again.
What is an implant? How does it get into the mouth? Does the body accept it? What does the whole procedure entail? These are all valid, intriguing questions that need to be clarified for the patient before the implantation. The implant is usually a metal—high-purity titanium—screw of various sizes and shapes, selected based on preliminary X-rays and oral examinations. Its material and special surface treatment have been chosen based on many years of experience to ensure that the body, as well as the surrounding bone, not only tolerate it but almost accept it as its own, forming a biological unity.
Anyone opting for dental implants needs to know that despite the most careful procedure, it is possible—although increasingly rare nowadays—that the implant may become loose or dislodged. In such cases, the implantation can be repeated, and if further unsuccessful, the option of removable dentures still remains.
How is the implantation performed?
Following patient examination, detailed information, and careful planning, the selected implants—usually under local, injectable anesthesia—are placed into the jawbone through a hole made after incising the gums. For the patient, the intervention represents a burden similar to the removal of a tooth or a root. However, the oral surgeon performing the surgery must have specialized equipment, preparedness, and heightened sterile conditions. The wound usually heals within a few days unless it is hindered by some other condition (e.g., advanced diabetes, conditions involving increased bone resorption, metal allergy, etc.).
Any potential diseases need to be identified during pre-examinations, and only after excluding or treating them can the implantation be considered.
From implantation to dental replacement
After the surgery, it usually takes 3-4 months for the bone to fully surround the implant and form a solid unit with it, making it load-bearing. Then, the abutment, resembling a prepared crown, is placed on it, extending into the mouth. Subsequently, based on an impression, the dental replacement, i.e., the fixed bridge, is made conventionally. It is crucial to maintain impeccable oral hygiene before and during the use of the fabricated teeth and to attend periodic check-up appointments. The patient’s adherence to this contributes most to success!
Implantation can be applied not only in cases of partial but also complete tooth loss or even when the tooth loss is bordered by intact, healthy teeth. Favorable patient testimonials, improved comfort and quality of life, and positive professional experiences underscore that the procedure represents a suitable alternative for replacing tooth loss.
