Dental Implant
What is a dental implant? A dental implant is a type of fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth. This prosthesis is actually a screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone. The screw is usually made of titanium, which is biocompatible and does not cause allergic reactions in the body. The implant acts as the root of the lost tooth and provides strength, stability, and proper function for the new tooth.
What are the components of a dental implant? In general, each implant consists of three main parts. The most important part is the fixture, which is the base that is implanted into the jawbone. The second part is the abutment, which is placed on the fixture and acts as a connector between the fixture and the prosthesis. The final part is the prosthesis itself, which sits on the abutment and replaces the crown of the lost tooth. The prosthesis can be a crown, bridge, or fixed denture, but the most common type is the dental crown.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants?
- + Improved chewing ability: You can chew food better and more confidently because the fixture is completely stable in the jawbone and the crown is securely attached to it.
- + Improved speech: Unlike removable dentures or sometimes bridges, there is no movement in your mouth, so your speech is not affected and you can pronounce words as usual.
- + More comfort: Dental implants are a permanent solution, help preserve the jawbone, and provide lasting comfort compared to dentures, which often need to be replaced after 5–8 years.
- + Better oral health: Implants act like your natural teeth, so you can brush and floss normally, reducing the risk of infection and bad breath.
- + More natural appearance: The prosthesis (crown) is color-matched to your natural teeth and looks seamless, so no one can tell the difference.
- + Higher durability: Dental implants have a high success rate and can last a lifetime with proper care, while dentures and bridges often require replacement or repair.
- - Expensive compared to other tooth replacement methods.
- - Requires surgical procedure for placement.
- - If not properly cared for, there is a risk of loosening, infection, or breakage (though it is rare).
- - The process is lengthy (usually takes 3 to 6 months).
- - Not suitable for everyone (requires sufficient bone, good health, etc.).
- - Often not covered by insurance.
What are the ideal conditions for receiving a dental implant?
- + Sufficient bone density: Implants need enough bone in the jaw to support the fixture. If there is not enough bone, bone grafting can be performed. CBCT scans are used to assess bone quality and quantity.
- + Age: Dental implants are not usually recommended for young patients whose jawbones are still growing. The ideal age is generally between 16/18 and 75 years.
- + Good general health: Good general and oral health are necessary for implant surgery. Certain conditions (such as uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, gum disease) can affect the success of implants.
What are the stages of dental implant surgery? The process includes initial consultation and assessment, any required pre-implant treatments (bone grafting, sinus lift, tooth extraction), placement of the fixture, osseointegration (bonding of the fixture to the bone), placement of the abutment, and finally placement of the prosthesis (usually a crown).
Frequently asked questions:
- - How much does a dental implant cost? Depending on the brand, the position of the lost tooth, and the complexity of the procedure, the price varies. For a mid-to-high-level brand in 2024, the cost is typically between 12 and 18 million Toman.
- - What is the success rate of dental implants? Generally, the success rate is over 95%, but using approved brands is important for the best results.
- - Is the procedure painful? No. The implant is placed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort after surgery is normal and can be managed with pain medication.