Implantology
Tooth loss not only affects eating habits and nutrient absorption but can also have a significant impact on self-confidence and social interactions. Implantology, or dental implants, is one of the most innovative and advanced solutions in modern dentistry. It offers patients the opportunity to regain their full quality of life and self-assurance. During the procedure, titanium artificial roots are implanted into the jawbone, mimicking natural tooth roots and providing a stable foundation for fixed dental prostheses such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. These implants not only offer a perfect aesthetic solution but also ensure long-term stability and functionality.
Materials and Lifespan of Dental Implants
Dental implants are made from titanium, known for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. Titanium implants offer long-term stability and safety as the bone tissue easily accepts and surrounds them. This process, known as osseointegration, ensures a strong fixation of the implants, allowing them to serve reliably for decades. Prosthetic restorations attached to the titanium implants—such as crowns, bridges, or dentures—naturally wear down over time and may need replacement every 10-15 years. However, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the implants themselves maintain their stability over the long term.
When Are Dental Implants Necessary?
Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth, but they are not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates for implantation are healthy adults, at least 18 years old, with sufficient bone density to ensure stable implant placement. The quantity and quality of the bone are crucial for the long-term success of the implant, as they provide the necessary fixation and stability.
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, active heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, may exclude the possibility of implantation, as these conditions can negatively affect healing and implant stability. A thorough evaluation of the patient’s health, bone density, and other relevant factors is conducted during a personal consultation, often with the help of X-rays and CT scans, which provide a detailed view of the jawbone’s structure and quality.
The Implantation Process
Implantation is a multi-step, carefully planned process that ensures the success and durability of the dental implants. The main steps of the implantation process are as follows:
- Assessment and Planning: The first step of implantation involves a thorough assessment, including oral examinations, X-rays, and CT scans. These tests help determine the quality and quantity of the jawbone, which is essential for the correct placement of the implant. Based on this information, the dentist creates a detailed treatment plan tailored to the patient’s individual needs and health condition.
- Placement of the Artificial Root: Once the planning phase is complete, the artificial root (a small titanium screw) is implanted into the jawbone, typically under local anesthesia to ensure the procedure is painless for the patient. The placement is done with precision tools, ensuring the implant’s optimal positioning and angle for the future dental prosthesis.
- Healing Period: After the artificial root is implanted, a healing period follows, usually lasting 3-4 months. During this time, the bone gradually integrates with the titanium root, forming a strong and stable foundation for the final prostheses. During healing, the patient must pay special attention to oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the smooth integration of the implant.
- Attachment of Final Prostheses: Once the healing period is complete, the patient returns to the dentist to have the final prosthesis—be it a crown, bridge, or denture—attached to the implant. This step restores the aesthetic and functional integrity of the teeth, ensuring a natural appearance and effective chewing function.
Why Is Sinus Lifting or Bone Grafting Necessary?
Sinus lifting and bone grafting are essential procedures when the jawbone lacks sufficient bone mass to support stable implant placement. Sinus lifting is particularly needed in cases of upper jaw atrophy, where the proximity of the sinus limits the available bone. During this procedure, bone graft materials are placed between the sinus and the jawbone, increasing the bone volume and height, thus providing a stable base for the implants.
Bone grafting is similarly important when the jawbone has thinned or atrophied, either due to natural bone loss or following previous tooth extractions. Modern bone graft materials, such as synthetic granules or natural bone materials, promote bone regeneration and growth. Over time, these materials integrate into the natural bone tissue, providing long-term stability and support for the implants.
Don’t Let Tooth Loss Diminish Your Quality of Life!
Tooth loss affects not only the appearance of your smile but also your overall quality of life. If you want to regain your natural smile and confidence, contact our expert dentists at Újbuda Medical Dental, located in District 11, Újbuda, Budapest! During a personal consultation, we will provide detailed information about the implantation procedure and help determine whether this solution is right for you. Don’t let tooth loss continue to impact your life—book an appointment today and experience the benefits of stable, aesthetic, and long-lasting dental implants! Reach out to us with confidence, and take the first step toward a healthy and complete smile with Újbuda Medical Dental!