When it is said...

Implantology

Dental implants are one of the most natural ways to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is an artificial replacement for the natural tooth that is placed in the jaw in the position of the missing tooth and performs its function. A dental implant can replace a single tooth or several missing teeth, and can also serve as a support for a fixed or removable dental prosthesis. In this way, implants can also be used to replace all missing teeth. Dental implants are suitable for anyone looking for a modern, minimally invasive and functional tooth replacement.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a screw-shaped titanium post that replaces the root of a tooth and is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Titanium is generally well tolerated by the human body, and allergic reactions are extremely rare. This “artificial root” provides a stable foundation for the long-term attachment of a prosthetic restoration while also helping preserve the space left by the missing tooth, where bone resorption could otherwise occur over time.

Dental implants are primarily used to replace individual missing teeth or as supports for fixed or removable dental prostheses.

When Is a Dental Implant Recommended?

Healthy teeth perform essential functions such as biting and chewing, as well as an important aesthetic role, contributing to the overall appearance of the face, individual expression and a natural smile. Healthy teeth are also essential for clear speech.

Teeth can be lost for many reasons during a person’s lifetime. The most common causes include trauma, gum disease, tooth decay and other inflammatory diseases affecting the teeth.

A dental implant is an alternative prosthetic solution. Where clinically appropriate, a missing tooth can be replaced with an implant instead of a conventional bridge. An implant restores the function of the original tooth and provides a natural-looking replacement without the need to grind down or otherwise alter the neighbouring teeth, as is necessary with a conventional bridge.

Almost anyone can be a suitable candidate for dental implant treatment, with the exception of patients with certain chronic or systemic conditions (such as diabetes) and heavy smokers. Smoking increases the temperature in the oral cavity and may reduce the likelihood of successful implant integration. Implant treatment is also not suitable for children and adolescents whose jaw growth has not yet been completed.

The suitability of implant treatment is assessed by a specialist dentist based on X-rays (or CT scans where necessary) and other relevant factors. Successful implant placement requires sufficient bone density and quality, the patient must be able to maintain excellent oral hygiene, and their body must have a normal capacity for wound healing.

What Types of Dental Implants Are Available?

There are several types of implants, attachment methods, surgical techniques and ways of positioning implants. Endosteal (root-form) implants are among the most commonly used. For this type of implant to be successful, the jawbone must be sufficiently deep and wide.

Even when the jawbone is not strong enough for a conventional root-form implant, there are still treatment options. The dentist may choose a specialised type of implant or perform a bone graft (bone augmentation) before or at the same time as implant placement to increase the amount of bone around the planned implant site.

How Is a Dental Implant Placed?

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia. The implant is placed into the jawbone at the site previously occupied by the tooth root. A titanium implant post with a threaded surface is inserted into the bone, providing stability and preventing unwanted movement.

The procedure usually takes approximately 20–30 minutes. It is minimally painful, and either local anaesthesia or conscious sedation may be used depending on the patient’s condition and preference.

An impression of the treatment area is then taken using an impression material, which is sent for further processing once it has set. The definitive bridge or crown is manufactured in a dental laboratory.

The healing period required for the implant to integrate with the bone is generally at least 3 months in the lower jaw and 6 months in the upper jaw, although this varies depending on the patient’s individual health and healing capacity. Faster treatment protocols are also available, in which the implant can be restored with a crown almost immediately. These include immediate implant placement and early or immediate loading.

In the long term, the reported success rate of implant placement is approximately 95% in the lower jaw and 90% in the upper jaw, mainly due to the lower bone density of the upper jaw.

How Should Dental Implants Be Cared For?

Patients with dental implants need to take careful and regular care of their “new teeth”. Regular contact with the treating dentist through preventive check-ups and excellent oral hygiene, including regular visits to a dental hygienist, are essential.

This ongoing care is crucial for the long-term, trouble-free use of dental implants.

What Are the Possible Complications?

As with all surgical procedures, dental implant placement carries certain health risks, although complications are relatively rare. If complications do occur, they should be treated appropriately. Implant treatment is most commonly unsuccessful as a result of smoking, certain medications, insufficient bone around the implant or inadequate oral hygiene.

Allergic reactions to titanium or other metals used to manufacture implants are extremely rare and are virtually never encountered. Relatively common complications may include infection or mechanical damage, such as fracture of the implant.

If you experience any complications with a dental implant, contact your dentist as soon as possible, so that any problems can be assessed and treated appropriately.