Dental Implants

They may be cylindrical or screw-shaped. Their surfaces may be threaded. Most modern dental implants are of this type.

They are indicated in cases where the width of the bone is not sufficient for root-shaped implants and in complete edentulous arch reconstructions. They can be prefabricated or custom-made.

According to the material:

Almost all dental implants are made of titanium. Titanium is a biocompatible material that the body readily accepts.

Zirconia implants are also available as a metal-free alternative.

Although polymers such as polymethylmethacrylate and polyethylene are biologically tolerable materials, they have low mechanical properties and poor adhesion to living tissues.

According to surface properties:

• Smooth surface implants:
• Implants with roughened surface.
• Coated implants.

According to the number of parts:

• One-piece implants: The abutment is directly integrated into the implant itself.
• Two-piece implants: The implant (fixture) and abutment are separate parts.

According to their diameter:

• Regular platform implants: Usually 3.5 - 4.5 mm in diameter.
• Large diameter implants: Usually wider than 4.5 mm.
• Narrow diameter implants (reduced diameter): Usually narrower than 3.5 mm.
• Mini implants: Usually smaller than 3 mm.

According to the timing of loading:

• Immediate loading implants: Implants in which the prosthesis is inserted immediately or within a short time after implant placement.
• Early loading implants: Implants in which the prosthesis is inserted within a few weeks after implant placement.
• Delayed loading implants: The traditional method in which the implant is waited for several months for osseointegration and then the prosthesis is inserted.

Dental implant procedure:

Dental implant placement is usually a process involving several stages. This process ranges from the placement of the implant to the fitting of the permanent prosthesis.

Pre-surgical evaluation and treatment planning:

First, when you visit Safe Medical, our expert dentist will evaluate whether you are a suitable candidate for implant treatment. This assessment may include a dental examination, review of your medical and dental history, radiographs (dental X-rays, panoramic X-rays, CT scans), and taking impressions of your mouth.

It is important to check the quality and quantity of your jawbone. If you don't have sufficient healthy bone or gum tissue, a bone graft may be required before implant placement.

Treatment options will be discussed with you, and the most suitable alternatives for your needs will be evaluated. A treatment plan will be created for your implant procedure, and factors such as cost and duration will be reviewed.

Implant placement:

• The implant placement phase is usually performed under local anesthesia.
• Incisions are made in the gum, and the jawbone is exposed. A hole is carefully drilled in the jawbone in the size where the implant will be placed.
• The implant (a piece of titanium in the form of a screw or cylinder) is gently screwed into the bone and placed in place. The implant is intended to be in close contact with the surrounding bone, which ensures that the implant is initially stable.
• If necessary, the gum is sutured back into place. A cover screw can be placed on top of the implant to prevent bone, soft tissue, or debris from entering the abutment connection area during the healing process.

Healing Process:

A healing period of 3-6 months is typically required for the implant to integrate with the bone (osseointegration). During this time, the implant becomes immobile and forms a solid foundation for the placement of the prosthesis.

In some cases, the implant may be submerged under the gum tissue and require a minor secondary surgical procedure (stage-two surgery) to expose it before use. During this stage, the cover screw is removed and replaced with a healing abutment (or healing cap). The healing abutment helps the gum tissue heal properly around the implant and creates an ideal transition profile for the prosthesis.

Denture Placement:

• Once the healing is complete, your dentist will arrange several appointments for a permanent crown, bridge, or denture.
• The healing cap is removed and replaced with a piece called an abutment, which connects the implant to the crown or denture. Abutments come in different shapes and sizes depending on the type and location of the denture. Custom-made abutments can help to mold the soft tissue for better aesthetic results.
• An impression is taken to transfer the position of the implant or abutment in the mouth to the laboratory. Impression posts (impression coping) are used for this process.
• In the laboratory, a model is prepared using a copy (analogue) of the implant according to the impression taken. Your permanent crown or denture is designed and manufactured on this model.
• Finally, the prepared crown, bridge, or prosthesis is fixed to the implant by screwing or gluing it to the abutment.

Who is not suitable for dental implants?

People who are not suitable for dental implants are determined depending on various factors. The factors that determine whether you are suitable for dental implants are as follows:

Systemic health conditions:

Patients with systemic health issues that may interfere with oral surgical procedures might not be suitable candidates for dental implants. Such conditions include uncontrolled diabetes, coagulation (blood clotting) disorders, and regular steroid use. Additionally, endocrine disorders (associated with vasoconstriction and tissue hypoxia leading to tooth/implant loss) may increase the risk of implant failure. Generally, systemic risk factors can elevate the chances of treatment failure or complications.

Oral hygiene:

Patients with poor oral hygiene are not ideal candidates for dental implants. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for implant longevity. Failure to brush and floss regularly, or neglecting routine dental visits, can negatively impact implant success.

Radiation therapy:

Dental implants may not be suitable for patients who have received high doses of radiation therapy.

Psychological Status:

Patients with a history of psychotic disorders may not be suitable for implant treatment.

Oral and maxillofacial pathologies:

Patients with hard or soft tissue pathologies may require resolution of these problems prior to implant treatment.

Age:

Young patients under the age of 18 are generally not suitable for dental implants as bone development is incomplete, and it is recommended to wait until growth is complete before implant placement.

Pregnancy:

Generally not recommended, but in exceptional cases a physician's assessment is required.

Alcohol or tobacco addiction:

Implant success may be adversely affected in individuals with alcohol or tobacco dependence.

Osteoporosis and low bone mineral density:

Bone quality is important for implant success. Patients with osteoporosis or low bone mineral content (decreased alveolar bone density and mass) may pose a risk to implants.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants have many benefits. Some important benefits are as follows:

• They play an indispensable role in achieving the goal of modern dentistry to rehabilitate functional, anatomical, or aesthetic problems caused by tooth loss.
• Provides a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
• It provides bone preservation after tooth loss and prevents utilization atrophy.
• It can replace all teeth as well as a single tooth.
• It can significantly improve the stability and retention of prostheses in people who use prostheses. This helps to improve the quality of life.
• Restores dental aesthetics.
• Restores lost dental functions (such as chewing and speaking).
• Provides maintenance of cavities and maintains occlusal stability.
• Can be used as orthodontic anchorage.
• Provides comfort and convenience.
• It can be a viable alternative to conventional treatment options, and in some cases, especially in severely atrophic mandible, it can be the first-choice treatment for rehabilitation of serious problems caused by tooth loss.
• It has a much higher success rate.
• It is usually a long-lasting and reliable treatment option.
• Provides a solid foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
• Can help improve the quality of life of a wide patient population.

What are the disadvantages of dental implants?

Dental implants have some disadvantages and potential complications.

Cost:

Dental implant procedures may include the cost of bone grafting (if necessary), surgical implant placement, abutments, and crowns. Laboratory fees are also involved. They may be more costly than traditional treatment options.

Surgical risks and complications:

• Implant placement is a surgical procedure, and, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
• There is a risk of damage to important anatomical structures such as the inferior alveolar nerve and mental nerve during implant placement.
• Poor bone quality may increase the risk of failure, especially with short implants.

The healing process:

After implants are placed, at least three months of healing time may be required before they can be used to support dentures. Some implants embedded under the gum may require a second minor surgical procedure to expose them before they can be used.

Peri-implantitis:

Inflammation of the tissues around the implant (peri-implantitis) can be a complication, and poor oral hygiene increases this risk.

Mechanical complications:

Implant parts can loosen or wear out over time. Screws holding the prostheses may break. Loosening or breakage of abutment screws may occur.

Uncontrolled diabetes:

Patients with uncontrolled diabetes may have an increased risk of implant failure.

Teeth grinding (Bruxism):

Bruxism may increase the risk of complications by increasing the loads on the implants.

Long-term care requirement:

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to maintain the health of the implants and surrounding tissues.

The maintenance process after dental implant and issues to be considered:

Aftercare after dental implant treatment is critical for the longevity and successful functioning of the implants. Some important points you should pay attention to after implant treatment are as follows:

After implant placement (immediately after period):

• After the implant procedure is finished, you can go home as soon as you feel well. Some swelling and light bleeding is normal, so be sure to follow your dentist's instructions to speed healing.
• Avoiding overly strenuous activities for the first 3 days helps prevent bleeding and discomfort after surgery.
• Quit smoking completely, because it delays healing and prevents regeneration.

Long-term care and maintenance:

Regular dental check-ups (at least twice a year) are necessary to maintain the health of the implants and surrounding tissues. Your dentist and hygienist should examine and clean your implants and crowns with specialized instruments.

It is very important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. This helps to minimize the risk of peri-implantitis (inflammation of the tissues around the implant):

• Regular brushing and flossing.
• Visit your dentist regularly.

Specialized cleaning methods may be required, such as the use of a piezo-ultrasonic tip to access the dental threads under the implant gums.

Other Considerations:

• Remember that your implants are made of titanium, zirconia, and/or porcelain. While these materials cannot decay, implants remain susceptible to gum disease and periodontal issues. It's crucial to be mindful of risk factors that contribute to gum disease.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching) can increase stress on implants and raise complication risks. In such cases, your dentist may recommend protective measures like a night guard.

Why is dental implant treatment more advantageous in Turkey?

Turkey has become one of the most preferred destinations for dental implant treatment in recent years. Here are the key factors making Turkey attractive for implants:

Affordable pricing:

Dental implant treatment in Turkey is significantly more economical compared to the US, UK, or other European countries. The primary reason is favorable exchange rates. Despite using high-quality materials and working with expert dentists, the lower costs provide substantial savings for patients.

Comparison (Single tooth implant)

High-quality treatment and technology:

• Dental clinics in Turkey provide services with digital tomography, 3D planning, CAD/CAM technology, and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Implant brands (such as Straumann, Nobel Biocare, and Osstem) are of international standards and guaranteed.

Experienced and specialized dentists:

• Dentists in Turkey are recognized worldwide, especially in the field of implantology and aesthetic dentistry.
• Many dentists have been trained in Europe and the USA and hold international certificates.

Combining tourism with treatment (Health tourism):

Cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir offer patients the opportunity to combine their treatment with a vacation, thanks to their tourist appeal. Many clinics enhance patient comfort by providing transfer services, accommodation, and interpreter assistance.

If you wish to enjoy a holiday in Turkey during your dental implant treatment, you can contact Safe Medical to learn about the services we offer.

Fast and effective treatment process:

• In some clinics, such as our clinic, fixed teeth can be made in a few days with the 'All-on-4' or 'All-on-6' techniques.
• Appointment waiting times are shorter than in many countries.

Patient satisfaction and reliability:

Dental clinics in Turkey have international accreditations (JCI, ISO), and thousands of foreign patients are treated with high satisfaction rates.

Visa ease and transport

It is easy to obtain a visa to Turkey for many citizens of many countries, and some countries can even enter without a visa. Cities such as Istanbul are connected by direct flights to many parts of the world.

F.A.Q:

Will I feel pain during dental implant treatment?

The dental implant treatment process is usually painless or slightly uncomfortable. Here is detailed information:

• Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, you will not feel pain during the procedure.
• For sensitive patients, sedation (light drowsiness) or general anesthesia can also be offered.
• Mild pain, swelling, or bleeding is normal for the first 24-48 hours.
• The pain level is usually no different from a simple tooth extraction.
• Painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen) prescribed by your doctor will provide relief.
• Within 3-7 days, swelling and pain are largely gone.
• Wait 2-6 months for the implant to fuse with the bone (osseointegration); this process is painless.
• If you experience severe pain, fever, or inflammation, contact your dentist immediately.

Recommendations to reduce pain:

• Ice compress (for swelling)
• Regular use of prescribed medication
• Eating soft foods (first few days)
• Avoid smoking and alcohol (slows healing)

What are All-on-4 and All-on-6?

All-on-4 and All-on-6 are innovative implant treatments developed for patients experiencing toothlessness or significant tooth loss.

• In the All-on-4 technique, a fixed prosthesis is created with four implants, and thanks to the implants placed at special angles, bone grafting may not be necessary. This method provides a rapid solution by allowing patients to receive temporary teeth on the same day.
• All-on-6 uses six implants to provide greater support, making it an ideal option particularly for patients with high chewing forces or borderline bone density. Both techniques offer more stable, comfortable, and natural-looking results compared to conventional dentures.
• Turkey has become an attractive center for All-on-4 and All-on-6 treatments for international patients.

How long does the implant process take for someone who has lost all their teeth?

The general timeline for implant treatment for someone who has lost all their teeth varies depending on each individual's condition and the procedures to be performed. However, considering the traditional delayed loading protocol, the period from implant placement to the attachment of permanent prostheses can typically take longer than 6 months, and may extend up to a year if additional procedures like bone grafting are required. This duration can be shortened with immediate or early loading protocols, but the suitability of these options is evaluated by the dentist. You can obtain the most accurate information about treatment duration from your dentist after a detailed examination and treatment planning.

What is the minimum number of implants required for dentures?

The minimum number of implants required for dentures depends on the type of denture and your jaw structure. Here are the details:

For Lower jaw (Mandible):

A minimum of 2 implants is sufficient for an 'overdenture' (removable prosthesis). The retention of the removable prosthesis increases, and bone resorption slows down. With 4 implants, it becomes more stable.

A fixed denture (All-on-4) requires at least 4 implants.

For upper jaw (Maxilla):

• Minimum 4 implants: The upper jaw has a softer bone structure, so it needs more support.
• For overdenture: 4 implants recommended.
• For fixed prosthesis (All-on-4/6): 4-6 implants are ideal.