What is an Implant? How is Dental Implant Treatment Performed?

Key Takeaways
Assoc. Prof. Ahmet Ferhat Mısır
Written by DentAkademi Editorial Team
Last updated:

Implants are durable and biocompatible artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. The treatment begins with a detailed examination of the jaw structure. If a suitable bone structure is found, the implant is placed in the jawbone under local anesthesia. For the implant to fuse with the bone, a healing process of approximately 3 months in the lower jaw and approximately 6 months in the upper jaw is required. After the healing process, the prosthetic tooth is placed and the treatment is completed.

What is an Implant?

An implant is a screw-shaped artificial tooth root that is surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. It functions similar to a natural tooth and supports oral health both aesthetically and functionally. Implants improve chewing function and fill the gaps created by missing teeth thanks to the crowns, bridges or prostheses placed on them. Made of titanium or ceramic, implants are compatible with biological tissues and are long-lasting.

Implants have three basic components:

  • The screw: It is fixed to the jawbone and acts as an artificial root.
  • Abutment: Connects to the screw and forms the basis of the prosthesis.
  • Prosthesis: It is the crown, bridge or prosthesis that completes the missing tooth.

What are the Types of Implants?

The most preferred implant types in implant application are titanium and ceramic.

Ceramic implants are preferred for patients who prioritize aesthetic concerns. It is known for providing the closest appearance to natural teeth. Since it does not contain metal, it is also a suitable option for patients with metal allergies.

Titanium implant is the most preferred implant type in terms of durability and compatibility. It is long-lasting as it does not interact with oral fluids. It can be used for years by harmonizing with the jawbone.

Implant types are also divided according to the type of application as follows:

Endosteal Implants: These are screw, cylinder or blade shaped implants placed in the jawbone. It is the most commonly used type and supports one or more teeth.

Subperiosteal Implants: It is a metal structure placed on the jawbone. It is suitable for patients with low bone density and who do not want bone augmentation.

Mini Dental Implant: Smaller implants are ideal for fixing loose dentures and for use in limited bone spaces.

Implant in 1 Day: Offers same-day implant and temporary tooth placement. Requires sufficient bone volume and solid implant stability.

All On Four Implants: It is the method used for the replacement of all upper or lower teeth. It provides a long-lasting and aesthetic solution with prostheses fixed on four implants.

Zygomatic Implants: Zygomatic implants are a specialized treatment option designed specifically for the upper jaw, with larger dimensions than standard implants. In addition to tooth loss, this method is preferred in cases of severe tooth decay, severe gum disease or when it is necessary to completely replace loose teeth.

Implant TypeMain IndicationKey Advantage
Titanium ImplantMost standard casesHigh durability and long-term success
Ceramic ImplantHigh aesthetic demandMetal-free and natural appearance
Endosteal ImplantAdequate jawbone volumeMost commonly used implant type
Subperiosteal ImplantLow bone densityNo need for extensive bone grafting
Mini Dental ImplantNarrow bone areas, loose denturesMinimally invasive, faster recovery
All-on-Four ImplantFull jaw tooth lossFixed teeth with only four implants
Zygomatic ImplantSevere upper jaw bone lossAvoids bone grafting in advanced cases
1-Day ImplantSufficient bone & stabilitySame-day temporary teeth

Advantages of Dental Implants over Other Treatments

A dental implant offers advantages compared to traditional denture and bridge treatments. They look similar to natural teeth and support the ability to chew and speak.

With the right care, implants can last a lifetime. Dentures and bridges are usually replaced at regular intervals.

An implant can help preserve facial structure by preventing jawbone loss. It does not cause slippage or loosening problems like dentures. It allows the surrounding teeth to be preserved without the need to cut healthy teeth.

A dental implant offers advantages compared to traditional denture and bridge treatments.

In Which Cases Is Implant Done?

Dental implant; It can be applied in the treatment of diseases such as caries, broken teeth, gum diseases, non-developing teeth. Implant can be done in the following cases:

  • Tooth decay
  • Broken teeth
  • Gum diseases
  • Non-developing teeth (Anadontia)
  • Teeth clenching or grinding (Bruxism)

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is caused by the destruction of tooth enamel by bacteria. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Dental implants can replace teeth lost due to decay.

Broken Teeth

Fractured teeth can occur as a result of an accident, trauma or biting down on a hard food. In some cases, the broken tooth cannot be saved and may need to be extracted. Implant treatment completes the missing tooth in such cases.

Gum Diseases

Periodontal diseases affect the gums and surrounding tissues, leading to tooth loss. Implants can replace teeth lost due to gum disease, but gum health may need to be improved before implantation.

Non-developing Teeth (Anadontia)

Anadontia is a genetic condition in which some teeth are never formed at birth. Dental implants increase patients’ self-confidence and chewing ability by replacing underdeveloped teeth.

Teeth Clenching or Grinding (Bruxism)

Bruxism can cause damage and loss of teeth over time due to excessive pressure applied to the teeth. Dental implants replace lost teeth and restore jaw function and oral health.

How is an implant done?

Implant treatment is performed by placing an artificial tooth root in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. During the procedure, the dentist first prepares an area in the jawbone and then places the implant in this area. A healing period of several months may be required for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. In the final stage, the prosthetic tooth is placed and the treatment is completed.

Pre-Treatment Planning Process

During the treatment planning phase, the patient’s oral structure, general health status and jawbone density are examined. X-rays and 3D scans can be performed to understand the jawbone structure. Diseases that may affect the patient, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, are checked. The type of implant to be used and the amount of the implant is determined. The correct completion of this process is important for the success of the treatment process.

Implant Placement and Surgical Stages

The dentist numbs the gums with anesthesia to prevent pain during the implant procedure. An incision is then made in the gums to reach the jawbone. A hole is drilled into the jawbone to create a suitable space for the implant. The implant screws are carefully inserted into the hole. When the procedure is successfully completed, the gums are closed and sutured. Temporary teeth can be applied in implants made in the front teeth.

Recovery Period and Prosthesis Application

The implant must completely fuse with the jawbone. Therefore, the healing period after the implant may take 3-9 months. During this period, the bone surrounds and stabilizes the implant. After healing is complete, an abutment made of titanium or ceramic materials is placed. The treatment is completed by inserting a prosthetic tooth. Proper care and following the dentist’s recommendations during this process ensures the longevity of the implant.

What should be considered before having an implant?

Dental implant treatment is successful with the right preparation and planning process. Before starting treatment, you need to carefully evaluate both your health condition and your choice of dental clinic.

You should inform your dentist if you have diabetes, osteoporosis or immune system problems. These conditions can affect the success rate of treatment. The density and quality of your jawbone must be suitable for the implant. In cases of insufficient bone, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be needed.

For a successful implant treatment, choosing a specialized dentist reduces the risk of complications and increases the success rate of the treatment. A clinic with advanced imaging techniques and modern surgical equipment makes the treatment process safer and more effective.

How Much Does an Implant Cost?

Implant prices vary depending on the quality of the material used, the brand of the implant, the experience of the physician and the clinic where the treatment is applied. You can contact Dent Akademi for information about 2025 dental implant prices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Implants

What are the types of dental implants?

Dental implants are usually made of two main materials, titanium and zirconium. Types include endosteal (placed in the jawbone) and subperiosteal (placed under the gum) implants. Mini implants may be preferred in narrow spaces.

Yes, implants can be applied immediately after tooth extraction. However, the dentist decides, taking into account the condition of the jawbone and the risk of infection. In some cases, several months can be waited for healing.

Yes, slight swelling may occur after the procedure. This is part of the body’s natural healing process and usually subsides within a few days. Applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

Since local anesthesia is applied during the procedure, no pain is felt. There may be some mild pain afterwards, but it can be controlled with prescribed painkillers.

Bone grafting is a procedure performed when the jawbone is insufficient to complete the missing bone. This procedure serves to increase bone volume for the safe placement of the implant.

Although implants are not generally recommended during pregnancy, the dentist decides on the procedure. Planning can be postponed to the postpartum period.

No, smoking can negatively affect the healing process. Smoking slows down the fusion process of the implant with the jawbone and increases the risk of infection.

Hard, sticky and hot foods should be avoided after the implant. Soft and cold foods should be preferred. Liquid-based nutrition is recommended for the first few days.

The dental implant procedure usually takes 1-2 hours. However, it may be necessary to wait 2-6 months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This period depends on the person and the condition of the bone.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, implants can last a lifetime. On average, they can be used for more than 20 years without any problems.

The price of a single dental implant varies depending on the material used and the location of the clinic.

This time is necessary for the implant to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration). A healthy fusion ensures the long-term success of the implant.

Yes, a full mouth implant can be done if all teeth are missing. However, methods that use fewer implants such as “All-on-4” or “All-on-6” are generally preferred instead of separate implants for each tooth.

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