What is a Dental Implant? If you’re dealing with missing teeth, implant treatment may be a great solution for you. It involves replacing the missing tooth with an artificial root, also known as an implant, which is made from biocompatible materials such as titanium that are safe for your body. With this procedure, you can achieve natural-looking teeth that function just like your original teeth. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back Your dentist may suggest implant treatment as a potential solution. The implant will seamlessly blend with the rest of your Jawbone and function just like your natural teeth. and the process is generally performed under local anesthesia in stages. The implant treatment procedure usually includes the following steps: Evaluation and Planning: The first step is for the dentist to evaluate the patient and determine whether they are suitable for implant treatment. Jaw structure, bone density, lack of teeth, and general health are evaluated. A treatment plan is created and necessary imaging (e.g. dental tomography) is performed. Implant Placement: In the second step, the implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The dentist creates a suitable space in the jawbone and places the implant in this space. The implant integrates with the jawbone over time and creates a solid foundation. Healing Process: After the implant is placed, the healing process begins for the jawbone to integrate with the implant. This process can usually take several months. When the integration of the implant with the jawbone (osseointegration) is achieved, the implant becomes stable and a prosthetic tooth can be placed on it. Prosthesis Application: The prosthetic tooth to be placed on the implant is prepared after the healing process of the jawbone is completed. The prosthetic tooth is screwed or glued onto the implant. The denture provides a similar appearance and function to other teeth. Implant treatment can be applied in many cases. Here are some application areas of implant treatment: Missing a single tooth: In the case of a single tooth loss, implant treatment may be preferred to replace a single tooth. Missing multiple teeth: In case of multiple tooth loss, a bridge can be created using implants. Complete edentulism: In cases where all teeth are missing, fixed or removable dentures can be applied using implants. Replacement of loose dentures: Implants can be used to increase the stability of removable dentures and provide a better grip. What is the Implant Treatment Process? Implant treatment is a widely used method to treat tooth deficiencies. This treatment process consists of several stages and requires careful planning and cooperation. Here are the basic stages of implant treatment: Evaluation and Planning: The implant treatment process begins with an evaluation by a dentist or implant specialist. The dentist evaluates the patient’s general health status, tooth deficiencies, jaw structure, and bone density. A detailed analysis is performed using the necessary imaging modalities (e.g. dental tomography). At this stage, suitable candidates for implant treatment are determined and treatment planning is made. Implant Placement: The next stage of implant treatment is the surgical placement of implants in the jawbone. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. The dentist acts according to a pre-planned plan to determine the correct position of the implants. After the implants are placed in the jawbone, time is given for the healing process. This process allows the implants to integrate with the jawbone. Healing Process: After the implants are placed, the healing process begins. This process is necessary for the implants to integrate with the jawbone and can usually take several months. When the integration of the implants with the jawbone (osseointegration) is achieved, the implants form a more solid foundation. Temporary Prosthesis Application: During the healing process, temporary prostheses can be placed on the implants. These prostheses temporarily close the missing tooth, provide an aesthetic appearance, and restore chewing function. Temporary prostheses provide a temporary solution for the patient while waiting for the integration process of the implants. Permanent Prosthesis Placement: When the integration of the implants with the jawbone is completed, the permanent prostheses are placed. These prostheses are specially designed on the implants and provide a harmonious appearance with the other teeth of the patient. The prostheses are attached to the implants by gluing or screwing. Permanent dentures provide functionality similar to natural teeth and help achieve an aesthetic smile. The implant treatment process may vary depending on the patient’s specific situation and treatment plan. The dentist will recommend that the patient do regular checkups and apply the right care. Regular controls are of great importance for the implants to be long-lasting and to achieve successful results. Stages of Conventional Implants In conventional implant treatment, the following steps are usually followed: Evaluation and Planning: The dentist evaluates the patient’s lack of teeth and creates an appropriate implant treatment plan. Jaw structure and bone density are evaluated using radiographic imaging techniques. Implant Placement: Implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. Implants are placed in predetermined positions and angles. Healing Process: A healing process is required for the implants to integrate with the jawbone. This process can usually take several months and allows the implants to stabilize. Temporary and Permanent Prosthesis Application: While the integration process of the implants with the jawbone continues, a temporary prosthesis can be applied to the patient. Then, specially designed permanent prostheses are placed on the implants. Braces Application (Orthodontics) Braces application is a widely used treatment method in the field of orthodontic treatment. This treatment is used for straightening and aligning teeth. Braces consist of wires and brackets that attach to the teeth. The main stages of braces application are: Evaluation and Planning: An orthodontist evaluates the patient’s teeth and jaw structure and creates an appropriate treatment plan. At this stage, the condition of the teeth, jaw closure, and other factors are taken into account. Placement of Brackets: Brackets are small pieces that are attached to the teeth. They are placed on the teeth using a special adhesive. Brackets are linked to braces and allow the movement of the teeth. Braces: Braces are the wires attached to the brackets. These wires provide the movement of the teeth by applying the right amount of force to the teeth. Checks and Adjustments: Regular checks are made and the braces are adjusted regularly after the braces are applied. These adjustments ensure the correct alignment of the teeth. Gum Treatment Gum recession is a condition in which the gums move away from the teeth and the roots of the teeth are exposed. This condition occurs when the gum line drops. Gum recession usually occurs for a variety of reasons, such as gum disease, improper brushing techniques, trauma, or genetic factors. The aim of gingival recession treatment is to restore the receding gingiva and protect the tooth roots. Treatment methods include scarification (gum cut), free graft, connective tissue graft, and flap surgery. The treatment option is determined depending on the cause of the gingival recession, the degree of recession, and the general health of the patient. If the gingival recession is not treated, problems such as sensitivity in tooth roots, progression of gum disease, and tooth loss may occur. Flapless Implant Surgery Flapless implant surgery is a different technique from traditional implant surgery. In this method, the gingiva does not need to be cut and sutured to place the implant. Flapless implant surgery uses tissue perforations and a special opening device instead of the gingival flap called a flap. In this way, the operation process is completed more quickly and comfortably. Flapless implant surgery is considered a less invasive method. Post-operative recovery is faster and patients generally experience less pain and swelling. This method is an effective option to achieve successful results when used in appropriate cases. Advantages & Disadvantages of Implant Treatment Implant treatment is an effective method used to treat missing teeth. This method of treatment has many advantages: Natural Appearance: Implants provide an aesthetic appearance similar to natural teeth. A denture that is compatible with color, shape, and size is obtained. Functionality: Implants perform functions such as chewing and speaking similarly to natural teeth. Bone Health: Implants protect bone health by applying an appropriate load to the jawbone and preventing the jawbone from melting. Long-Lasting: With good care and regular checkups, implants can last a long time and provide a long-lasting solution. However, implant treatment also has some disadvantages: Surgical Procedure: Implant treatment requires a surgical procedure. Therefore, mild pain, swelling, and tenderness may be experienced after treatment. Duration of Procedure: Implant treatment can prolong the treatment process of missing teeth. The healing process is necessary for the implants to integrate with the jawbone, and this may take several months. Implant Treatment Prices 2024 Implant treatment prices may vary depending on many factors. These factors include the number of missing teeth, the material of the implant, the need for surgery, and the complexity of the treatment process. In addition, the experience of the dentist and living costs in your area can also affect prices. Implant treatment prices are determined as a result of discussions with your dentist. Your dentist evaluates your treatment plan and makes a custom costing for you. Implant treatment is often considered an investment that pays off, as it provides quality treatment and a long-term solution. Is It Mandatory To Have Tomography Before Implant Treatment? Having a CT scan before implant treatment is usually a recommended step. Tomography is an imaging technique used to evaluate the jaw structure and bone density in more detail. These images provide the dentist with the necessary information for implant treatment and aid in treatment planning. Tomography is used to determine the thickness, height, and density of the jawbone before implant treatment. This information ensures that the implants are placed in the correct sizes and positions. It is also possible to detect any problem or pathology in the jawbone and adapt the treatment plan accordingly. Does the tooth made on the implant look like a natural tooth? The tooth made on the implant provides an aesthetic appearance similar to natural teeth. Implants are covered with specially designed porcelain or ceramic coatings. These veneers adapt to the color, shape, and size of natural teeth. Teeth made on implants are designed in harmony with natural teeth. Tooth color, tooth shape, gingival appearance, and tooth spacing are carefully selected to mimic the person’s natural smile. In this way, the teeth made on the implant provide a very similar appearance to natural teeth. Which Situations Require Implant Application? Implant application is used to treat a variety of conditions. Here are some situations that require implant application: Missing a tooth: In case of loss of a tooth, a prosthesis that replaces the missing tooth and provides functionality and aesthetics similar to natural teeth can be made using implants. Missing multiple teeth: In case of multiple tooth loss, a bridge can be created using implants. Complete edentulism: In cases where all teeth are missing, fixed or removable dentures can be applied using implants. Replacement of loose dentures: Implants can be used to increase the stability of removable dentures and provide a better grip. Can the implant be applied at any age? Implant treatment can generally be applied to individuals of all ages with a healthy mouth and appropriate bone structure. Age factor is not an obstacle to implant treatment. What is important are the patient’s general health status, bone density, and other factors. However, implant treatment is generally not recommended at young ages. Because the jawbone is still under development sufficient bone density may not be provided for the placement of the implants. In young patients, temporary solutions may be preferred in case of missing teeth and implant treatment can be planned in adulthood. What does the success of the implant depend on? The success of implant treatment depends on several factors. The following factors are important for the successful attachment and longevity of the implant: Bone Density: Adequate bone density is required for the implant to be properly placed in the jawbone. A good bone structure ensures the stability of the implant. General Health Status: The general health status of the patient may affect the success of the implant treatment. Some health problems may be an obstacle to implant treatment. For example, severe diabetes, bone diseases, or immune system problems can adversely affect implant treatment. Oral Hygiene: The success of the implant depends on good oral hygiene. Gum diseases or infections can lead to complications around the implant. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are important. Dentist’s Experience: Implant treatment should be performed by an experienced dentist. A specialist dentist should have the necessary skills and experience for implant treatment. Situations Where Implantation Is Not Possible Implant treatment is generally a viable option for many patients. However, in some cases, implantation may not be possible. Here are the situations where implantation is not possible: Insufficient Bone Density: Sufficient bone density is required for the successful attachment of implants. If there is insufficient bone in the jawbone, implant treatment may not be possible. In this case, additional treatments such as bone grafting or bone insertion may be required. Health Issues: Some health issues can prevent implant treatment. Severe diabetes, bone diseases, immune system problems, or some chronic diseases may be risk factors for implant treatment. Smoking: Smoking can adversely affect the success of implant treatment. Smoking slows the healing process and prevents implants from sticking. It is recommended to quit smoking for implant treatment. Oral Hygiene Problems: Implant treatment can be risky in cases where good oral hygiene is not provided. Problems such as gum disease or tooth decay can affect the long-term success of implants. Young Age: Implant treatment is generally not recommended while the jawbone is still in development. Implant treatment before the jawbone is fully mature may cause problems in the future. In younger patients, temporary solutions may be preferred and implant treatment can be planned in adulthood. Are Implants Rejected by the Body? Since implants are usually made of biocompatible materials, they are less likely to be rejected by the body. Implants are usually made of titanium and this material is well tolerated by the body. Titanium fuses with the bone tissue, ensuring a strong and durable placement of the implant. However, the risk of implants being rejected by the body does not completely disappear. In rare cases, the body’s immune system may reject the implant, and implant treatment may fail. This can be caused by factors such as infection of the implant, tissue reactions, or improper placement of the implant. Do Dental Implants Cause Cancer? Dental implants are not known to be a cancer-causing factor. Implants are usually made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and have a low potential to cause cancer. Scientific studies show that dental implants are not a cancer-causing factor. However, it is important to visit the dentist regularly before and after implant treatment. These checks provide information about the health of the implant and the condition of surrounding tissues. Your dentist will do regular checkups to make sure your implant treatment has been performed correctly. Is Implant Treatment Expensive? Implant treatment is generally more costly than other dental restoration methods. The cost of implant treatment can vary depending on various factors. These factors include the number of implants, the material of the implant, the complexity of the treatment process, the region where the implant will be placed, and the experience of the dentist. The cost of implant treatment is generally considered a one-time investment. Implants are long-lasting and may be more economical in the long run than other restoration methods. In addition, the fact that implants provide similar function and aesthetics to natural teeth is also a factor that pays off. Can there be any discomfort during and after the operation? The implant treatment operation process is usually performed under local anesthesia and the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. However, some discomfort may be experienced during and after the operation: Discomfort During the Operation: The implant placement operation is usually a short procedure and creates minimal discomfort for the patient. A slight pressure or vibration may be felt in the mouth during the insertion process. Post-Operative Discomfort: Some discomfort is normal after implant placement. These may include mild swelling, pain, bleeding, and tenderness. These discomforts are usually temporary and subside over time. Medication Use: You may need to use medications prescribed by your doctor for pain or discomfort after the operation. In addition, cold application may be recommended to reduce swelling after the operation. How Long Does It Take for the Placement Operation and the Completion of the Prosthesis? Implant treatment consists of the placement operation and the completion of the prosthesis. Both phases take a certain amount of time: Placement Operation: The operation of placing the implant in the jawbone is usually a short procedure. It may take approximately 1 to 2 hours for the implant to be placed in the correct position and for the healing process to begin. This time may vary depending on the number of implants, the complexity of the treatment, and the patient’s condition. Completion of the Prosthesis: After the implant is placed, it is expected to heal with the jawbone and the implant to settle. The healing process usually takes between 3 and 6 months. During this time, the implant integrates with the jawbone and creates a solid foundation. After the healing process is completed, some measurements are taken by your dentist, and porcelain or ceramic veneers are placed to complete the prosthesis. The prosthesis can usually take several weeks to complete. In Which Situations Is Implant Application Risky? Implant application is generally a safe and successful treatment method. However, in some cases, implant application may be more risky. Conditions that may be risky for implant treatment include: Insufficient Bone Density: Sufficient bone density is required for the successful attachment of implants. If there is insufficient bone in the jawbone, implant treatment may be risky. In this case, additional treatments such as bone grafting or bone insertion may be required. Health Issues: Some health issues can prevent implant treatment. Severe diabetes, bone diseases, immune system problems, or some chronic diseases may be risk factors for implant treatment. Smoking: Smoking can adversely affect the success of implant treatment. Smoking slows the healing process and prevents implants from sticking. It is recommended to quit smoking for implant treatment. What is done in the first examination? The first examination is an important step for implant treatment. At this stage, the dentist evaluates the patient and determines the suitability of the implant treatment. The following steps can be followed during the initial examination: Patient History and Evaluation of Complaints: The dentist listens to the patient’s dental health history and current complaints. Gets information about former dental treatments, gum condition, and existing tooth deficiencies. Oral Examination: The dentist examines the patient’s mouth and teeth in detail. The condition of the teeth, tooth deficiencies, and jaw structure are evaluated. Radiographic Examination: X-ray and tomography imaging required for implant treatment are performed. These images help determine the appropriate bone structure for implant placement. Treatment Planning: In line with the information obtained from the first examination, the patient’s treatment plan is created. This plan includes the number of implants, implant material, treatment process, and estimated cost. How Long Does the Surgical Procedure Take? Placement operation in implant treatment is the process of placing the implant in the jawbone. The duration of the placement operation may vary depending on the number of implants, the complexity of the treatment, and the patient’s condition. Usually, a single implant placement takes about 1 to 2 hours. This time is sufficient for applying local anesthesia, determining the correct position of the implant, and performing the surgical procedure. The duration may be longer if more than one implant is to be placed or if the treatment is more complex.