What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Titanium is a biocompatible material—it does not cause allergies, is corrosion-resistant, and is very durable. The implant is surgically placed in the upper or lower jawbone, where it integrates after a few months—bone cells grow into the implant’s surface, stabilizing it. After this process, the implant provides a solid foundation for attaching crowns, bridges, or dentures. Thanks to this solution, tooth restoration is durable, aesthetic, and functional.
Who are dental implants for?
Implants are a solution for anyone who has lost teeth, regardless of age (with the exception of children whose bones are still developing). They are ideal for both single missing teeth and complete edentulism. Tooth loss can result from trauma, diseases such as tooth decay or periodontitis, or intolerance to traditional dentures. Implants allow for the restoration of function and the aesthetics of your smile in a way that does not negatively affect the surrounding teeth and bone.
Why choose implants?
Dental implants offer many advantages over traditional removable dentures:
- Stability and comfort – implants provide a permanent attachment for crowns and dentures, eliminating the problem of loose parts and the need for adhesives.
- Bone preservation – implants stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss, which often occurs after tooth loss and the use of removable dentures.
- Natural appearance and function – a tooth restored on an implant looks and functions like a natural tooth, improving speech, chewing ability, and comfort.
- Protection of adjacent teeth – implants do not require the grinding down of healthy teeth, which is necessary with traditional bridges.
- Durability – porcelain crowns attached to implants are very durable and, if necessary, easy to replace without repeating the entire procedure.
How is the implant placement procedure performed?
Implant placement is a safe and relatively simple surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia, comparable to a tooth extraction in terms of comfort. The process begins with a thorough diagnosis—the dentist assesses the condition of the bone using X-rays or a CT scan to select the appropriate implant in terms of length, diameter, and location. The procedure itself usually takes up to an hour. This is followed by a period of osseointegration, lasting 3 to 6 months. Once this stage is complete, the implant is exposed, and the final prosthetic crown is attached to it.