Missing a tooth?
What you need is a dental implant!
Dental implants are artificial replacements for missing teeth used to emulate the functional characteristics of a natural tooth root in order to restore proper chewing function. They serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose, the same as natural teeth, and don’t damage the surrounding healthy teeth. They are a safe and guaranteed long-lasting solution that can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene. Dental implants are made of titanium, an exceptionally biocompatible material that ensures smooth osseointegration (bone ingrowth), minimises all types of inflammatory and allergic reactions of the oral cavity tissue, and can withstand significant chewing pressure. Our implants are made by Biomet 3i, a global leader in implant dentistry, the Swiss company Nobel and the Italian company Dental Tech. After the procedure, you will receive a universal passport detailing the work performed and materials used.
Before placing a dental implant, it is necessary to perform a complete examination of the oral cavity, a panoramic dental X-ray (or OPG) of the jaw area and, if necessary, a CBCT (3D scan).
After the X-ray imaging and examination of the patient, a treatment (placement) plan is mapped out, including the time period in which the procedure can be performed.
Dental implant procedures are performed under local anaesthesia, and are completely pain-free.
A healthy and strong bone is the most important factor for a successful placement and integration of a dental implant. In case of a sufficient bone volume, the dental implant can be placed immediately.
If the surgeon finds the bone quality inadequate (lack of volume) for immediate placement, you will be offered an alternative solution to replacing the missing tooth.
DENTAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT PROCESS
The stages of implant placement include the diagnostic testing stage, surgical stage, osseointegration (bone ingrowth), and final placement stage.
In the diagnostic testing stage, the surgical specialist will perform a dental X-ray or a CT scan to assess whether the morphological conditions and bone structure are adequate for implant placement.
SURGICAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT STAGE
The surgical stage involves embedding the dental implant into the bone. The procedure lasts between 10 to 15 minutes on average, and is performed under local anaesthesia, in sterile conditions.
After choosing the most suitable implant, the surgeon opens up the gum area and secures the implant into the bone.
The incision is then closed with sutures and covered completely to prevent an infection.
The implant placement procedure is pain-free and causes minimal discomfort for the patient.
OSSEOINTEGRATION
Osseointegration is a necessary step for integrating the dental implant and healing the bone.
The surgeon will determine the time needed for osseointegration, typically ranging between 2 to 3 months for the lower jaw, and 6 to 8 months for the upper jaw.
This will depend on the complexity and type of procedure, and the condition of the patient’s bone.
RECOVERY AFTER DENTAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT
After placing the dental implant, the patient will continue with antibiotic treatment, as well as pain medications, if necessary.
Swelling is normal for these types of procedures, and can be treated with a cold compress for the first 12 hours.
A cold compress can be applied to the sore area in 20-minute intervals, with a couple of minutes between each interval.
It is recommended to avoid rinsing the oral cavity 24 hours after placing the dental implant, and to use an extra-soft toothbrush.
Patients should refrain from smoking for at least one week after the procedure.
The sutures are removed after one week, during the first post-operative check-up.