Dental implants 101
Dental implants are a hallmark of a modern dentistry. Implanted into the jawbone or mandible, they function similarly to a tooth root. By creating such a solid, bone-bound base, they allow for further crown or even bridge installment.
Due to the scope of the procedure, the decision to get an implant must be preceded by careful diagnostics, assessment of indications and contraindications as well as a thorough interview. As patients, we should also know as much as possible – so that we, together with our doctor, can choose the most appropriate treatment option.
So then, when can implants be a great solution? What are their biggest advantages? 🦷
The most important indication is, obviously, the loss of a tooth or teeth. Loss can be caused by many factors, such as trauma or caries-related complications.
Implants work particularly well in the case of single tooth gaps, but are also very useful when planning a bridge that’s lacking "pillars" (i.e. teeth supporting the planned structure).
Another interesting use of implants is the stabilization of prostheses. If there are no natural teeth to hold the denture in a stable enough way, an implant may become an ideal solution, offering support for a removable prosthetic restoration.
A particular advantage of implants is the aesthetic value of the reconstructions; crowns supported on them do not require additional elements or hooks.
By choosing an implant, we often avoid also the need of burring into adjacent teeth as support for prosthetic bridges, and we also strengthen them by reducing the impact of increased biting force, which is often the result of the loss of one or several teeth.
When may an implant not be a good idea?🦷
Even such a revolutionary solution as implants cannot be used in every clinical case.
One of the cases in which implants are not recommended is advanced bone loss in either mandible or maxilla.
Such a condition occurs especially often when tooth loss hasn’t been treated for years. The bone may then become weaker and gradually begin to atrophy.
In some cases, such a loss or weakening of the bone structure can be treated, but that is not always possible.
Some systemic factors also have a negative impact on the implantation success rate. These include certain heart, circulatory system and immunological diseases or uncontrolled diabetes.
However, our lifestyle and habits also play a great role when it comes to chances for a successful implantation.
The most common habit that becomes a contraindication for such a treatment option is smoking, which, among other things, affects the blood supply of the mucous membrane, leading to problems with the healing process and an increased number of post-treatment complications.
The same is true for inadequate oral hygiene, which increases the risk of infection and, consequently, even the loss of the implant. Parafunctions, bruxism and teeth grinding may also lead to a long-term treatment failure.
Due to such a wide range of not only advantages, but also contraindications, it is particularly important to consult a specialist before making the final decision regarding treatment path.
A thorough assessment of your oral health, bone condition, overall medical state and habits will ultimately determine whether implantation is indeed the right solution.
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