Who are dental implants suitable for?
If you’re missing one or more teeth, then dental implants might be right for you. To be 100 percent sure if you are a fit for implants, a dentist needs to have a look at your X-ray, in order to estimate your specific situation.
Sufficient bone density is required to properly place the implant and hold it in place. Bone loss can occur if a missing tooth is not replaced on time or due to the natural aging process. If you are lacking the required bone density for implant placement, a bone graft may be required to build up your jawbone.
How do dental implants work?
Implants are artificial root replacements that support dental prostheses such as crowns and bridges. They are placed in two phases:
Phase 1:
Before the procedure, your dentist will examine your oral cavity and X-ray to precisely determine the positioning of your teeth and the condition of your jaw and jawbone. If you are lacking the required bone density for the implant, bone grafting will be required before placing the implant.
The implant will then be inserted. An implant resembles a small screw, and this screw will be placed where your natural teeth are missing. After placement, the healing phase begins. This period is also called ‘osseointegration’, which means that the implant has to fuse with the jawbone. This might take up to six months, though the time may vary individually.
Phase 2:
Once the implant is fully integrated with your jawbone, a small attachment, called an “abutment” is fitted onto the top of the implant. The abutment functions as a “connector” between the implant and the replacement tooth. Once the abutment is set, your dentist will then attach the replacement tooth (crown) to the abutment.
Do dental implants look natural?
Yes, dental implants are the most modern, natural-looking solution for missing teeth.
Will my body reject the dental implant?
Though it is possible, such cases are very rare. Implants are constructed from titanium, which is a biocompatible material. This material is hypoallergenic and is also used for other prosthetics in the human body, enabling complete assimilation into the jawbone.
When placing implants, it is important to exclusively use premium brands that can guarantee high-quality results, as seen from long-term clinical studies. Such brands are Nobel Biocare, Straumann and Astra Tech. Their rejection rate is only about one percent.
The risk of rejection of dental implants is higher among smokers and for those suffering from diabetes. However, this doesn’t mean that it is not possible for people with such conditions to receive implants.
When asking your dentist about dental implants, it is important that you discuss every condition that could present a problem (smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, autoimmune diseases, diabetes…).
How long do dental implants last?
With the right care, implants can last a lifetime. It’s important that you carefully follow the instructions provided by your dentist after the procedure. Premium dental implant brands, such as Nobel Biocare, Straumann and Astra Tech, offer lifelong warranties on their implants.
How should I care for my implants once they are in place?
Directly after implant placement, it is very important that you follow your dentist’s instructions. On the day of the procedure and the day after, it is advisable to cool the affected area as much as possible. Avoid warm, hot and grainy foods and beverages for at least two to three days. Avoid smoking too. You can brush your teeth as usual, without touching the area of the implant. After several days, once the wound begins to heal, you can brush that area too.
Can you speak and eat normally after getting a dental implant?
Yes! The greatest advantage of dental implants is that they function just like your natural teeth. They allow you to speak as usual and eat all your favourite foods, without any unusual sensations or pain.
Will I need general or local anesthetic to get a dental implant?
Local anaesthetic is sufficient for implant placement, and will completely numb the area where the implant is being placed. The procedure is completely painless, easy and fast (one implant takes about 15 minutes to be placed). After the procedure, you will receive antibiotics to prevent potential infections and if necessary you will also receive painkillers, though in most cases this is not necessary.
Is there a certain age range for which dental implants are unsuitable?
Generally, anyone missing one or more teeth is a suitable candidate for implants. There is no age limit for placing implants. It is important that your overall health and oral health are in good condition and that your gums are healthy. Implants can be placed as soon as the growth of the patient’s jaws stops.
The Dentum dental clinic in Croatia is an officially recommended and certified dental clinic by Nobel Biocare and Straumann. If you are interested in getting premium dental implants at prices up to 70 percent lower than in the UK, visit the website www.dentum.com or get in touch directly by calling on 020 376 939 73 or sending an email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
