Dental implants are a method aimed at restoring the function and aesthetics of missing teeth through artificial tooth roots made of titanium, which are placed in the jawbone.
Because titanium is a biocompatible material, it undergoes various processes to ensure the cellular integration of dental implants with the jawbone. Among these processes are roughening and various coatings. Once the dental implant is placed in the jawbone, it adheres cellularly by forming a special bond with the bone. After this integration process is complete (usually within 1-6 months), the superstructure, namely the preparation of the prosthesis, takes place. This stage is similar to the process of creating a crown or bridge on a normal extracted tooth.
Dental implants are among the best alternatives that can replace natural teeth in cases of tooth loss today. Especially in cases where support for neighboring teeth is not desired or when there are no teeth available for support, it is the method that provides the best results for prosthetic rehabilitation.
Additionally, in cases of complete tooth loss, dental implants are indispensable for increasing the retention of complete dentures or for fully fixed prosthesis applications. When dental implant treatment is applied with the correct diagnosis, sufficient knowledge, experience, and equipment, it can yield highly successful results for both the patient and the dentist. Statistical data show that when properly placed, the success rate of implants is around 95% over a five-year period.
As the preferred method for treating tooth loss, dental implants offer a longer-lasting treatment option compared to fixed bridges made with removable dentures or neighboring teeth resting on the gum. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone, and this method is preferred because it does not require cutting healthy neighboring teeth. Problems such as sensitivity and nerve damage can arise due to damage to the enamel layer of cut teeth. Additionally, cleaning the area under the porcelain over time can become challenging, leading to issues such as cavities and gum problems. Problems like porcelain cracking or breaking at certain intervals may occur in fixed bridge prostheses, requiring the bridge to be rebuilt. Various damages can occur in the supporting teeth during these processes.
Research indicates loss rates of up to 30% in neighboring teeth with fixed bridges or removable dentures within five to seven years. Therefore, cutting healthy teeth can lead to problems with these teeth over time. Dental implants and the prosthetic restorations placed on them offer an effective solution to prevent all these problems.