What is Implant Treatment and How Is It Performed?

Implant treatment is a dental treatment that uses artificial tooth roots to replace missing teeth or to provide a more secure hold for dentures. Implants are usually designed as long and thin screw-like structures made of biocompatible materials such as titanium. The implants are inserted into the jawbone and fuse with the bone, similar to natural tooth roots, creating a strong foundation.

Implant treatment usually consists of the following stages:

Evaluation and Planning: In the first stage, the dentist evaluates the patient's teeth, gums and jawbone. X-rays and other imaging techniques may be used if necessary. At this stage, a treatment plan is created based on the patient's needs and conditions.

Implant Placement: The implant placement operation is performed under local anesthesia. The gums are opened and the implants are screwed or pressurized into the jawbone. This procedure is usually performed with minimal pain and discomfort.

Healing Process: After the implants have been placed, a healing process is necessary for them to fuse with the jawbone. This process can usually take several months. Once the osseointegration is complete, the implants will be in a stable position and ready to be fitted with prosthetic teeth.

Temporary Prosthesis Application (Optional): During the healing process of the implant, the patient may be supported by a temporary prosthesis. This temporary prosthesis offers a temporary solution to meet aesthetic and functional needs.

Prosthesis Placement: After the implants have healed, specially prepared dentures or prosthetic teeth are fitted. These dentures provide a similar appearance and function to natural teeth.




Risks of Implant Treatment

While implant treatment is generally safe and effective, there can be some risks and complications. Here are the potential risks of implant treatment:

  • Infection: As with any surgical procedure, implant surgery carries the risk of infection. Infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, but sometimes the implant may need to be removed.

  • Jawbone Damage: There is a risk of damaging the jawbone during implant placement. This can affect the fusion or stability of the implant.

  • Nerve Damage: There is a risk of damage to the jaw nerves during implant surgery. This can cause temporary or permanent loss of sensation.

  • Implant Failure: Failure of the implant to conform or fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration) means that the implant has failed. This may require removal of the implant and additional treatments may be required for its reinsertion.

  • Jaw Bone Loss: After implant surgery, jaw bone loss can occur. This can lead to a reduction in the amount of bone around the implant and affect the stability of the implant.

  • Peri-implantitis: This is an infection and inflammation of the gums around the implant. Peri-implantitis can affect the union and stability of the implant and can lead to jawbone loss.
  • Aesthetic Problems: Although implants provide a similar appearance to natural teeth, aesthetic problems may arise in some cases. In particular, gum recession or errors in the positioning of the implants can affect the aesthetic results.
  • Systematic Risks: Surgical procedures, such as implant surgery, may be associated with systemic risks, such as general anesthesia or sedation. Therefore, for some patients, the surgical procedure may be riskier.

    • These risks are usually rare and can be reduced with careful assessment and treatment planning by a good dentist. If you have concerns about implant treatment or would like to discuss the risks in more detail, it is important to consult a dentist.




    Who is not suitable for implant treatment?


    Implant treatment may not be suitable for everyone and is not applicable in some cases. Conditions where implant treatment is not suitable or risky can be as follows:

    • Insufficient Jawbone Volume
    • Developmental Conditions (Children and adolescents)
    • Chronic diseases (e.g. severe osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune diseases)
    • Cigarette Use
    • Oral Hygiene Problems (such as gum disease)
    • Temporary Health Problems (For example: Serious infection, heart disease, recent major surgery)
    • Mental Status and Fitness (Psychological or behavioral problems)

    These are factors that can affect the success of implant treatment or increase the risks. Before implant treatment, it is important to be evaluated by a dentist or implant specialist.




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