Short answer: A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone in place of the root of a missing tooth, together with a dental restoration made on top of it. It can be considered for many adults who are in suitable general health and have sufficient gum and bone condition; however, suitability is determined by the dentist through examination and three-dimensional imaging.
What is a dental implant?
An implant is a small screw intended to take over the role of a natural tooth root. Once it has integrated with the bone, a connecting part called an abutment and the tooth (crown) are placed on it. Different plans can be made for a single missing tooth, several missing teeth or jaws without teeth. We have described the options in general terms in our article on treatment options for people without teeth.
Who may it be suitable for?
- Adults who are missing one or a few teeth
- People whose jaw growth is complete
- Those with enough bone volume to carry the implant (bone support can be planned if needed)
- Those whose gum disease is under control
- People who can look after their mouth regularly
In which situations is care taken?
The following situations do not necessarily prevent an implant, but they may require additional assessment, precautions or preliminary treatment:
- Uncontrolled diabetes and some systemic diseases
- Use of some medicines that affect bone metabolism
- Smoking
- Untreated gum disease
- Insufficient bone volume
- Periods when jaw growth is still continuing, such as childhood and adolescence
Be sure to share the medicines you use and your health history at the examination.
What stages does the process go through?
- Examination and imaging: An intraoral examination and X-rays are carried out, and three-dimensional tomography when needed.
- Planning: The amount of bone, the neighbouring teeth and the condition of the gums are assessed. Digital planning may be used; for details, see our article on digital planning in implants.
- Surgical stage: The procedure is mostly carried out under local anaesthesia; the implant is placed in the bone.
- Healing period: A period of waiting is needed for integration with the bone. The time varies by person and site.
- Prosthetic stage: When integration is complete, an impression is taken and the tooth is made.
- Check-ups: Regular check-ups and professional cleaning are planned.
You can read the basic steps of planning in our article on planning in implant treatment.
What can be expected after the procedure?
- Mild swelling, tenderness or bleeding may occur in the first days; in most people it subsides quickly.
- The medicines and cold-compress instructions recommended by the dentist should be followed.
- In the first weeks it is necessary to avoid hard foods and to clean the area gently.
What other options are there besides an implant?
An implant is not the only option for missing teeth. The dentist also explains the alternatives according to the condition of the neighbouring teeth, bone structure and your expectations:
- Fixed bridge: Takes support from the teeth next to the missing tooth; these teeth need to be reduced.
- Removable denture: Can be taken out and put back in; it does not require bone support but has different characteristics in terms of comfort and stability.
- Implant-supported restoration: Aims to fill the place of the missing tooth without touching the neighbouring teeth.
- Closing the space orthodontically: In some cases the space can be reduced by moving the teeth.
For situations where implants and orthodontics are planned together, you can look at our pages on implants and orthodontics and planning clear aligners and implants together.
Differences between an implant and a natural tooth
Although an implant is intended to take the place of a natural tooth, it is not the same structure. The ligament tissue that surrounds the root of a natural tooth is not present in an implant; for this reason, care and monitoring of the tissues around the implant are especially important. Chewing habits, clenching and general health can also affect the long-term health of an implant. So at the planning stage, the whole mouth is looked at, not only the missing tooth.
What should you prepare when coming for an examination?
- A list of the medicines you use and the illnesses you have had
- Any old X-rays and treatment records you have
- Honest information about your smoking and alcohol habits
- Your expectations and the questions you have
This information helps the dentist prepare a plan that is specific and safe for you.
Common points during the treatment process
- Smoking and medicines: Talk openly with your dentist, because they can affect healing.
- Temporary tooth: In some cases a temporary solution may be planned while healing continues.
- Check-up appointments: Healing and integration are monitored with X-rays and examination.
- Anxiety: If you are worried, talking to your dentist can help you feel at ease during the procedure.
As with every treatment, it should not be forgotten that with implants there can be risks such as infection, healing problems or the implant not integrating with the bone, and that these are assessed together with the dentist.
For long-term success
The tissues around an implant need care just like natural teeth. Regular brushing, interdental cleaning and periodic check-ups are important. For practical information, you can look at our implant cleaning guide. Gum disease, smoking and irregular check-ups can negatively affect the tissues around the implant.
Frequently asked questions
Can everyone have implant treatment?
No. General health, bone and gum condition are assessed together; some people may need alternative solutions or preparatory treatment.
How long does implant treatment take?
The duration varies from person to person according to bone condition, healing speed and the planned restoration. The dentist suggests a timeline after the examination.
What is done if there is not enough bone?
In some cases bone support (a graft) or a different plan may be considered. This decision is made according to the imaging results.
How can you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right plan for you is determined through an examination and the dentist's assessment. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we discuss your questions with you. For appointments and directions, you can look at our contact page.
