Dental implant
Permanently restore the natural function and appearance of your mouth
Have you recently found yourself with a missing tooth and wondering what your options are? Did you know that dental implants are a durable replacement solution that fits naturally into your jawbone? This blog will answer all your questions about dental implants, from the installation process to daily maintenance.
One of the key points in the success of an implant is the experience and skill of the dental surgeons. At Bucharest British Dental Place clinic, we not only have extensive experience, but also a technological platform that will allow you to benefit from the latest innovations when placing an implant.
Another very important point is the cost of implants. Often little or not reimbursed, the price is often an obstacle to using this technique which is nevertheless the only solution to regain functionality and a smile. Bucharest British Dental Place clinic offers you several options and very competitive prices, without making concessions on quality.
The arrival on the market of low-cost clinics or very aggressive dental tourism proposals should alert you to the long-term quality. In fact, an implant must be able to last a lifetime! If certain savings are made at the time of installation, the final cost will ultimately be higher and the hassle too. In particular, very cheap implants can only be repaired in the clinic that installed them!
So, make the right choices and prepare to find your most beautiful smile!
Key takeaways
A dental implant is an artificial root that replaces a missing tooth. It inserts into the jawbone to provide a solid dental anchor.
Dental implants are more comfortable than removable dentures or dental bridges. They look and feel like real teeth.
There are several types of dental implants, such as titanium, zirconium or polymer. The choice depends on your needs and your oral health.
The installation of a dental implant is done in several stages: evaluation, implantation surgery, healing phase and installation of the dental prosthesis.
Maintaining dental implants is essential for their durability. They should be brushed, flossed and avoided smoking or chewing hard foods.
The brand of the implant is very important, only major brands guarantee that it can be repaired if necessary.
The skill and experience of the dental surgeon is fundamental
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a medical device that replaces a missing tooth root. It works by acting as an artificial root, anchored resiliently into the jawbone.
Compared to other tooth replacement solutions, such as dental bridges or removable prostheses, the implant offers several advantages. It looks and feels more natural, and can help maintain the health and integrity of your jaw.
There are different types of dental implants, including titanium, zirconium or polymer. Which option you prefer will depend on your individual oral health situation.
Definition and operation
A dental implant is an artificial root that replaces a missing natural tooth. It usually comes in the form of a titanium or zirconium screw, which inserts into the jawbone to provide a strong, durable anchor.
This medical device serves as the basis for a crown, bridge or dental prosthesis. After implant surgery, the healing time varies according to each patient, but it is necessary for the implant to integrate perfectly with the jawbone.
Once this integration is successful, the dentist places the prosthesis to restore the mouth to its natural and functional appearance.
Advantages over other tooth replacement options
A dental implant provides you with much greater comfort than removable prostheses or dental bridges. Once in place, it functions like a natural tooth, meaning you can eat, speak and smile without any discomfort.
Compared to dentures or bridges which must be replaced often, dental implants have an impressive longevity when they are well maintained.
Additionally, unlike other tooth replacement options, the dental implant does not need to rely on neighboring teeth for anchorage. This preserves the health of your other teeth by eliminating the need to weaken them to attach a bridge.
The bone healing process around the implant also helps maintain the shape and density of your jawbone, preventing its breakdown over time.
Types of dental implants
There are several types of dental implants that are chosen based on your specific needs.
Titanium implants: They integrate perfectly with the jaw bone and provide strong anchoring for the dental prosthesis.
Zirconium implants: These implants have a color similar to that of natural teeth, offering a more aesthetic result.
Polymer implants: These are alternatives to metal implants that minimize allergic reactions.
Mini implants: These are used when there is little bone to support a standard implant, or in narrow areas of the mouth.
Subperiosteal Implants: These dentures sit on top of the jawbone when the jawbone is not thick enough to support traditional endosseous implants.
The different parts that make up a dental implant
A dental implant is a complex device made up of several essential parts that work together to replace a missing tooth.
The implant :
The first component is the implant screw, usually made of titanium due to its biocompatibility. This screw serves as an artificial root and is carefully inserted into the jawbone, where it will fuse with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration.
Pillar:
Next comes the abutment, a piece that is attached to the implant screw and serves as the base for the crown. It is the abutment that ensures the transition between the implant buried in the bone and the crown visible in the mouth.
Crown :
Finally, the crown is the visible prosthetic part that looks and functions like a natural tooth. It is usually made from materials like ceramic or zirconium to ensure both durability and aesthetics.
Attaching the crown:
After the crown is made (which can take a few days to a few weeks depending on the method used), the dentist will attach it to the abutment. There are several methods for attaching the crown to the abutment:
Cementing:
The crown is cemented onto the abutment using a special dental cement.
Screwing :
The crown has a hole through which it is screwed directly onto the pillar. Once screwed, the hole is often masked with a small piece of restorative material for aesthetic reasons.
Together, these components form a system that not only mimics the appearance, but also the function of a natural tooth.
What brands of implants?
Not all implants are equal, 2 points are very important
The quality of manufacturing, to promote osseointegration, and avoid inflammation around the implant several years after placement.
The brand of the implant and its international distribution. You should know that each brand of implant has its own tools for installing and removing implants. If the brand is not widely distributed, as is the case with low-cost implants, it will be impossible to carry out a simple repair, such as tightening a screw, without returning to the clinic and the country where it was installed. Whereas with a known brand, the implant can be repaired worldwide.
The choices of Bucharest British Dental Place Straumann clinic
We have established the leading brand in terms of quality and distribution throughout the world. We use the brands Straumann and Neodent, which is a Straumann brand but cheaper, Bicon (United States) and Camlog (Germany).
So…Is there a better system?
And how can we choose it?
Dental implants are not without their problems.
Peri-implantitis – Inflammation of the gums +/- Bone loss
A MEDLINE (PubMed) search for the last 3 years was performed using keywords related to the definition and prevalence of peri-implantitis. Other literature, from reference lists, review articles and consensus reports, was used. The definition of peri-implantitis is heterogeneous due to the different bone loss thresholds and pocket depths used, creating divergence in prevalence figures. The prevalence of peri-implant mucositis ranged between 19 and 65%, while the prevalence of peri-implantitis ranged between 10 and 40%. Consensus was reached that the definition of peri-implantitis should be clinical signs of inflammation (bleeding on probing) and/or suppuration, combined with progressive bone loss. Additionally, we strongly recommend that measuring bone loss relative to implant length will further classify the case as mild, moderate, or severe peri-implantitis.
Publication: Definition and Prevalence of Peri-Implantitis. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267396681_Definition_and_Prevalence_of_Peri-Implantitis [accessed Apr 1, 2017].
Approximately 500,000 dental implants are placed each year in the United States alone, so it is very important to identify the cause of any complications and develop a strategy to address these issues.
And at Bucharest British Dental Place, that’s what we did.
So why does peri-implantitis occur and how can we prevent it?
This is a controversial topic and science is often confused with marketing a particular product in a very competitive market. Patients should always be wary of the “hard sell”… Although there are medical and dental health issues that play a role, such as smoking, diabetes, occlusion, etc. – the key problem is probably related to the implant itself.
One of the first companies to tackle this problem head on was the American company Bicon, which developed an ingenious macro design.
Most dental implant systems consist of two parts. The implant that is placed in the bone and the abutment that comes into the mouth to receive a dental crown.
The junction of the abutment and the implant appears to be crucial.
Choice of abutment system
As soon as an implant is placed in the mouth, it is colonized by bacteria from saliva. These bacteria can infiltrate the mouth and cause inflammation of the gums and also destroy the bone adjacent to the implant.
Bicon has developed a 1.5 degree locked tapered abutment system that is pressed into the implant to produce a “cold weld”. Tests have confirmed that this significantly reduces bacterial escape both in vitro and in vivo. Other companies have also developed a tapered locked abutment system that is screwed into the implant, producing the same effect by preventing micromovement of the abutment where it joins the implant. The junction is prevented from opening and closing and pumping bacteria into the mouth.
Preventing bacterial leakage from the implant appears to be a key issue in selecting an implant system
The presentation below shows how the abutments move when subjected to occlusion (biting) forces.
https://youtu.be/A h sjiYjmTLE
There is no doubt that micromovements of the abutment must be avoided if the long-term success of the implant system is to be avoided. Therefore, great care is taken to choose an implant system with designs that overcome this serious problem.
If you already have an implant with abutments that are loosening or fracturing, this indicates micromovements and instability in the system.
Macro design of the implant
The geometric design of the implant system also appears to be a key factor in preventing long-term inflammation or peri-implantitis, and is perhaps downplayed by those with a vested interest in a specific commercial system.
Essentially, if the implant can be placed deep to the bone (subcrestal placement) and is designed with a shoulder, the bone can actually push over the implant and move up the abutment – in a process which regenerates lost jaw bone following extraction. This is the antithesis of what is supposed to happen in implants placed at other levels (at or above bone level), in which an annual bone loss of 0.2 mm per year is classified as a success!
“Platform Switching” is a term used in implantology in which a range of smaller diameter abutments can be placed for implant systems designed without a shoulder. They are used to treat soft tissue infections +/- bone loss, i.e. peri-implantitis, which could have been prevented in the first place, with a shoulder design.
Thus, the level at which the shoulder implant system is placed appears to be critical.
Implant diameter
The diameter of the implant should reflect the diameter of the tooth it is replacing. This is known as the Emergence Profile and is important for preventing bone loss.
If a wide crown is placed on a narrow implant, bone resorption reflects the shape of the widened part of the crown. The side that is not expanded is spared in comparison.
In this case, unconventional double premolar crowns on a single implant are associated with large bone losses reflecting the shape of the enlarged part of the crowns. This treatment is not recommended.
In this case, there is no widening of the crown and the bone has pushed over the inclined shoulder of the implants and up the abutments. This is the ideal situation.
The Three Principles for long-term stability:
The macrodesign should include a shoulder for bone wrapping
Tapered mortise abutment system to prevent bacterial leakage
Subcrestal bone placement to promote vertical bone growth
The Three Principles for long-term stability:
Subcrestal bone placement
Tapered mortise abutment system
Macrodesign – one shoulder
Process of placing a dental implant
The dental implant procedure begins with a thorough assessment and careful planning. Implantation surgery is then performed, during which a titanium screw, zirconium screw or polymer implant is inserted into the jaw bone.
After the operation, a healing and integration phase of the implant is necessary to ensure solid anchoring. Finally, the denture is attached to the implant, completing the process.
Assessment and planning
Before a dental implant is placed, your dentist will perform a detailed assessment of your oral health. This step is essential to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
The dentist will examine your jawbone to check that there is enough bone for the implant to anchor. He will also take into account your general health, your medical history and the quality of your remaining teeth.
Computed tomography (CT) or cone beam scanner
These three-dimensional images provide a detailed view of bone density and allow precise visualization of anatomical structures, such as nerves and sinuses. They are essential for planning precise implant placement and determining whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are necessary.
The treatment plan, including the type of implant to be used – titanium screw, zirconium screw or polymer implant – is also established during this phase.
Implantation surgery Implantology
Implantation surgery is a crucial step in the dental implant process.
The dental surgeon begins with local anesthesia to minimize any pain during the procedure.
Then, he makes a small incision in the gum where the tooth is missing.
It drills a hole in the jaw bone to accommodate the dental implant.
The titanium, zirconium screw or polymer implant is then inserted into this hole. It is the artificial root which serves as an anchor for the future dental prosthesis.
After this operation, the healing time required depends on the patient and their ability to heal.
During this bone healing phase, you must avoid certain bad habits such as smoking which can slow down the healing process.
Bucharest British Dental Place clinic has a very competent and experienced team, with a maxillofacial surgeon who is a doctor and dentist.
We can offer to improve the quality and comfort of installation
Stacked Surgical Guidance….
What is a Stacked Surgical Guide?
At its core, a stacked surgical guide is a device used during dental implant surgery. This guide is designed to fit a patient’s dental arch and features precisely designed sleeves or guides that determine the angle, depth and position of the implant to be placed. By using these guides, dental surgeons can ensure that implants are optimally positioned, which is crucial for the longevity and functionality of the implant.
Navident Digital Guidance
The guidance allows the surgeon to follow the placement of the implant in real time and on 3D images, and will guide him for greater precision. In practice, it is enough to carry out a pre-operative scan, and place markers, to follow the procedure in 3 D and in real time. We use the Navident technique which is dynamic guidance, which allows us to modify the procedure during the intervention if necessary.
What are subperiosteal dental implants?
In essence, a subperiosteal dental implant is a type of dental implant specifically designed for patients who do not have enough healthy jaw bone to support traditional implants.
Structure: The subperiosteal implant consists of a custom-made metal framework that rests on the jawbone but below the gums. The implant is tailored to each patient’s unique bone structure, ensuring a perfect fit. Once in place, posts protrude from the gums, providing an anchor for the denture teeth.
Why choose subperiosteal implants? Bone Volume Issues: In some cases, patients may not have enough bone volume to support endosteal implants (the most common type of implant that is placed directly into the jawbone). This may be due to bone resorption, a natural process where bone decreases after tooth loss.
Less invasive: Bone grafting is a solution for those who lack bone, but it requires surgery to transplant the bone to the desired area. Subperiosteal implants offer an alternative, eliminating the need for grafting in many cases.
Fast Results: Because they do not require intensive surgery or bone grafting, subperiosteal implants often allow for shorter recovery times.
Subperiosteal Implants: Main advantages over basal and pterygoid implants
Versatility in bone volume: As mentioned previously, subperiosteal implants are specifically designed for patients with insufficient bone volume. Although basal and pterygoid implants are also suitable for low bone volume situations, subperiosteal implants can be custom made to the exact topology of the patient’s jaw, ensuring a more precise fit.
No need for sinus lift: Pterygoid implants engage the pterygoid plate of the sphenoid bone, which can sometimes require a sinus lift, especially if there is a risk of sinus penetration. On the other hand, subperiosteal implants do not require sinus procedures because they rest on the jaw.
Custom fit: The structure of subperiosteal implants is custom designed for each patient using detailed models or images of their jaw. This ensures a perfect fit and can provide a higher level of comfort than other types of implants.
Reduced surgical complexity: Basal and pterygoid implants require specific surgical techniques and angles to avoid vital structures. In comparison, the placement of subperiosteal implants can often be less complex because it does not require drilling into the bone.
Implant healing and integration phase
The integration of your new dental implant requires a healing phase. Here’s how it usually happens:
After surgery, your jaw bone should heal around the implant. This process is called osseointegration.
During this time, you may experience some level of pain and discomfort.
It is recommended to avoid any intense physical exertion during the first days.
Complete healing and integration of the implant may take several months.
It is recommended to have a gentle diet for a few weeks so as not to disrupt the healing process.
Pain medication will be prescribed if necessary to manage discomfort after surgery.
During this time, it is crucial to avoid tobacco and alcohol which can interfere with healing.
Good oral hygiene protects your new implant from infections while it heals.
Finally, post-operative visits to your dentist are planned to monitor your recovery and make sure everything is going as planned.
Fitting the dental prosthesis
Fitting the dental prosthesis is a key step in the implantology process. Here’s what you need to know:
The custom-made dental prosthesis is attached to the implant.
This connection creates a strong anchor for the new tooth.
The prosthesis can be a dental crown, a dental bridge or a removable prosthesis.
The choice of denture depends on several factors, including the location of the missing teeth and your overall oral health.
Once fitted, the prosthesis looks and functions like a real tooth.
We must take care of this new structure as we would other teeth: by regular brushing and flossing.
Visits to the dentist should not be neglected; they are essential to ensure that everything functions correctly after implant placement.
Bad habits like grinding your teeth or chewing on objects can damage the denture.
The evolution of impressions: from plaster to 3D scanner
It is necessary to take impressions in order to then be able to organize the prosthetic part (placement of the tooth). With technological progress in dentistry, traditional methods of taking impressions are evolving rapidly. Historically, mouth impressions were made with specific materials to create plaster models of the patient’s dentition. Although this method was effective, it could be uncomfortable for the patient and sometimes required several attempts to obtain an accurate impression. With the advent of 3D scanners, this approach is changing dramatically. Dentists can now use intraoral scanners to capture detailed, three-dimensional images of the patient’s mouth in minutes. Not only is this technique faster and more comfortable for the patient, but it also provides increased precision. Additionally, digital images can be easily shared, stored, and used to design dentures using specialized software. Thus, the transition from plaster to digital transforms the patient experience while providing dentists with more precise and efficient tools for dental care.
In practice, the dentist uses a 3D probe and will reconstruct your teeth in 3D.
Bucharest British Dental Place clinic is equipped with a 3D scanner for modeling your jaw, but also for 3D printing teeth. This is CEREC CAD/CAM technology
Care and maintenance of dental implants
Taking care of your dental implants is essential to maintain their durability and prevent any complications. Daily brushing with a soft toothbrush is recommended to effectively clean the implants.
Flossing helps remove food residue and plaque between the teeth and the implant. Regular visits to the dentist are crucial to ensure that the implants and surrounding gums are healthy.
Avoiding bad habits like smoking or chewing hard foods can prolong the life of your dental implants. Finally, a good diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also contribute to the health of your implants.
Brushing and flossing
Taking care of your dental implants is of paramount importance to ensure their longevity. Here are some brushing and flossing tips:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your implants.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after each meal.
Use toothpastes specially designed for implants.
Be gentle when brushing around the implanted areas to avoid irritation.
Use dental floss regularly; This is essential for removing food debris that can build up around and between your implants.
Use specific dental floss suitable for implant wearers or a water flosser.
Be sure to floss close to the gum without pressing too hard so as not to irritate it.
Clean all sides of the implant well with dental floss.
Regular visits to the dentist
It is essential to schedule regular visits to the dentist for a complete mouth exam, even after dental implant placement. These appointments provide an opportunity for the dentist to check the general condition of your implants as well as your oral health.
The professional can also quickly identify and treat minor problems before they develop into major complications. Professional cleanings are also performed during these visits, helping to prevent plaque and gum disease.
Thus, these visits contribute to maintaining the durability of the dental implant and promote optimal overall oral health.
Avoid bad habits
To maximize the life of your dental implant, certain habits should be avoided.
Avoid smoking:
Tobacco smoke harms the overall health of the gums and can compromise the integration of the implant.
Eat healthy foods:
Limit the consumption of sugary foods that feed bacteria in your mouth.
Avoid excessive alcoholic drinks: Alcohol can dry out the mouth, which encourages the growth of bacteria.
Stop grinding or clenching your teeth:
These actions can cause the implants to wear out and eventually loosen.
Minimize intense physical contact without mouth protection:
Contact sports can cause facial trauma which can damage your implants.
Don’t neglect your oral cleaning routine:
Good daily cleaning is essential to keep your implants healthy.
What is the cost of installing a dental implant?
The cost varies a lot depending on the country, the clinic and the performance of the dental surgeon
At Bucharest British Dental Place clinic a Straumann type implant will cost €800 and €450 for Neodent (Straumann brand).
This price is given as an indication, and will depend on the number of implants to be placed and the precise examination of your teeth. Do not hesitate to contact us for a free quote
Conclusion
The dental implant offers a durable and reliable alternative to replace missing teeth. Very similar to natural teeth, they provide comfort and confidence to those who wear them.
With proper care, these implants can last a lifetime. Choose health and a smile with dental implants.
Today, installing dental implants is a simple procedure that should not scare you. It is important to trust a competent team with extensive experience in implant placement.
Bucharest British Dental Place clinic will provide you with all its guarantees, with very competitive prices, do not hesitate to contact us for information and a free quote
Download our presentation on dental implants
