When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-term solutions. They not only restore the functionality of the dental arch but also provide natural aesthetics to your smile. In this text, we will cover what a dental implant is, the different types available, and how the installation process works. So you can make an informed decision for your health!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jawbone and serves as a foundation for future prosthetics. Thanks to the high biocompatibility of materials such as titanium and ceramics, the implant provides a stable base for crowns, bridges, or removable dentures, ensuring long-lasting stability and comfort.
Types of Dental Implants
By Material
- Ceramic Implants: An ideal option for patients with metal allergies, providing high aesthetics, especially in the front teeth area, as they do not show through the gums.
- Zirconia Implants: Biocompatible with high strength and aesthetic properties, suitable for placement in both the anterior and posterior regions.
- Titanium Implants: The time-tested standard—strong and durable. Titanium is widely used in medicine, confirming its safety.
By Bone Fixation
- Root-Form Implants: The most popular type, mimicking the shape of a natural tooth root and fitting well for most patients with sufficient bone volume for placement.
- Basal Implants: Used in cases of significant bone atrophy without requiring bone grafting, as they are fixed in the deeper layers of the bone.
- Zygomatic Implants: Applied in severe upper jaw bone atrophy cases, anchored in the zygomatic bone to ensure secure fixation even in complex situations.
By Construction Type
- One-Piece Implants: A single, integrated structure that includes both the abutment and the root part. These implants can be loaded with a temporary crown immediately.
- Two-Piece Implants: The root part and abutment are placed separately, allowing for separate implantation and prosthetic procedures, which is convenient for complex clinical cases.
Stages of Implant Installation
Single-Stage Implantation
An examination, X-ray, or CT scan is conducted to assess bone condition and determine the optimal implant placement.
The implant is inserted into the bone under local anesthesia.
Done either a few hours post-surgery or 3-7 days later, depending on the clinical situation.
After the implant has integrated (3-4 months in the lower jaw or 4-5 months in the upper jaw), a permanent crown made of metal-ceramics, ceramics, or zirconia is placed.
Two-Stage Implantation
Similar to the single-stage procedure, a thorough diagnosis evaluates the bone volume and quality.
The implant is fixed into the bone and is covered by the gum to allow for healing and integration.
The implant is left to heal for 3-6 months to ensure complete fusion with the bone.
After full integration, a healing abutment is placed.
A permanent crown is fitted, completing the prosthetic process.