🦷 Dental Implants

🔹 What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root—usually made of titanium—that’s surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Once the implant fuses with the bone, a crown (artificial tooth) is attached on top, creating a natural-looking and fully functional replacement.

🔹 Components of a Dental Implant

1. Implant Fixture (Root Part)

   • A screw-like post made of titanium or titanium-zirconium alloy.

   • Inserted into the jawbone to act as the root of the tooth.

2. Abutment (Connector)

   • Connects the implant to the crown.

   • Serves as the “link” between the root and visible tooth.

3. Crown (Artificial Tooth)

   • The visible part that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

   • Usually made from zirconia or porcelain.

🔹 Stages of the Implant Procedure

1. Initial Consultation & Planning

   • Dental examination and imaging (Panoramic X-ray or CT Scan).

   • Assessment of bone density and oral health.

   • Treatment plan prepared for number and position of implants.

2. Surgical Placement

   • Local anesthesia is used (general anesthesia is rare).

   • A small incision is made in the gum, and a hole is drilled in the bone.

   • The implant fixture is inserted and the gum is stitched closed.

3. Healing & Osseointegration

   • The bone gradually fuses with the implant (3–6 months).

   • This process ensures a stable, permanent bond.

4. Abutment and Crown Placement

   • Once healed, the gum is reopened, and the abutment and crown are attached.

🔹 Types of Dental Implants

🔹 Success Factors

✅ Good oral hygiene and healthy gums
✅ Adequate bone density and volume
✅ Non-smoker (smoking reduces success rate)
✅ Well-controlled medical conditions (especially diabetes)

🔹 Advantages of Dental Implants

• Natural appearance and function

• Permanent and stable (no slipping like dentures)

• Preserve jawbone and prevent bone loss

• Long lifespan (can last 20+ years)

• Do not affect neighboring teeth (unlike bridges)

🔹 Possible Risks or Complications

⚠️ Temporary swelling or discomfort after surgery
⚠️ Rare implant failure (if bone doesn’t fuse properly)
⚠️ Slightly higher cost compared to other options
⚠️ Requires multiple visits and healing time

🔹 Aftercare & Maintenance

• Brush and floss regularly using a soft toothbrush.

• Use an antibacterial mouth rinse.

• Avoid hard or sticky foods for 1–2 weeks after surgery.

• Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleaning and follow-up.

🔹 Longevity

With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or even a lifetime, making them one of the most reliable long-term tooth replacement options.