Implants
What is an implant?
An implant is a small titanium screw that is inserted into the jawbone where a tooth is missing (fig. I-II). Over the course of a few weeks, the jawbone heals around the implant, so that the implant can serve as an attachment for a tooth replacement, e.g. a porcelain crown (fig. III-IV). Modern implant treatment is a safe and secure treatment with excellent durability and prognosis. Implant treatment is a process that requires thorough preliminary examinations and careful planning. The treatment usually extends over several weeks and requires many visits to the dentist.
Processing step by step:
1. Insertion of implants (fixture).
The operation is performed under local anesthesia and is painless. Painkillers are usually given before the operation. After the procedure, you will receive more detailed information. This will help you to know what to do in the time after the operation. 2. healing period.
It usually takes several weeks before the implant can be loaded. As a rule, the healing period is shorter in the lower jaw than in the upper jaw.
3. Installation of abutment.
The abutment is installed as an extension of the implant and will act as an attachment for the tooth replacement.
4. Fabrication and assembly of tooth replacement.
This requires 2 or more dental visits depending on the type of tooth replacement to be made.
What does implant treatment cost?
Implant treatment is an extensive and expensive treatment. You should therefore receive a written cost estimate before treatment begins. In general, the price depends on the number of implants to be inserted and the structure to be attached to the implants.
Implant treatment can be used for the following:
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Replace one tooth.
This avoids having to grind down neighboring teeth in order to attach to a regular bridge. This is particularly advantageous where the neighboring teeth are without holes and fillings. -
Replace several teeth.
Two or more implants can then be inserted and a ceramic bridge attached to them. -
Replace all the teeth in the jaw.
The implants will then act as an attachment for a full denture or for a larger ceramic bridge. This type of construction has several advantages over a conventional prosthesis.
Who can get implants?
The vast majority of people can have implants inserted and advanced age is not in itself an obstacle. However, a thorough preliminary examination is necessary before treatment can begin. X-rays are taken to assess the height and quality of the jawbone, and the oral cavity must be free of infections and gum disease (periodontitis). In order to make the procedure as safe as possible, it is also important to have up-to-date health information. You must therefore let us know:
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medication
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diseases
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more allergic
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abnormal bleeding tendency
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previous complications in connection with dental treatment
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pregnancy
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anxiety about dental treatment
Possible complications of implant treatment:
In the first few days after implant placement, you may experience some swelling and bruising of the face. This is normal, especially if several implants are inserted at the same time. Numbness in the surgical area may also occur, but with very few exceptions this is temporary. Some people are predisposed to periodontitis. Breakdown of the jawbone can also occur around implants and is called peri-implantitis. In the worst case, this can lead to the implant loosening and having to be removed.
To get the best possible prognosis, you must:
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Have your periodontitis under control before implant treatment is carried out.
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Quit smoking.
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Keep implants thoroughly clean. Keep in mind that the requirements for oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are the same as for natural teeth.
The new tooth replacement is subjected to great forces daily when chewing. Over time, this can cause pieces of porcelain or plastic to break off. If aesthetics or function deteriorate significantly, it may be necessary to fabricate a new crown, bridge or denture.