Different Dental Implant Systems
Types of dental implants is a topic that may be of interest to people who are considering dental implant treatment. In this article, we will look at the different types of dental implants, the process of placing them, as well as the costs and care after implantation. We invite you to read on!
Introduction to implant treatment
Implantology treatment is a modern method of restoring missing teeth, which allows for the restoration of full chewing function and smile aesthetics. In this introduction, we will discuss the basics of implantology treatment, its purpose, and the benefits of this type of therapy.
What is implant treatment?
Implant treatment involves implanting special screws into the jawbone, which act as tooth roots. Crowns, bridges, or dentures are placed on these screws, called implants, to replace missing teeth. This process allows for the reconstruction of lost teeth, restoring the patient's full functionality and the aesthetics of their smile.
When do we need a dental implant?
We need an implant in situations when we have lost teeth due to caries, periodontal disease, injuries, or accidents. Dental implants are also a good solution for people who have problems maintaining removable dentures, as they provide stability and comfort of wearing. It is worth noting that implant treatment is only possible if the patient has enough bone that is able to support the implant.
Stages of installing a dental implant
The process of installing a dental implant consists of several stages. The first is a consultation with a dentist, who will assess the patient's health, needs, and the possibilities of implant treatment. Then, diagnostic tests are carried out, such as X-rays or computed tomography, which will allow for precise planning of the procedure.
In the next stage, the implantologist starts to implant the implant into the bone. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about an hour. After the implant is implanted, there is a healing period, which can last from several weeks to several months, depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the type of implant.
Once the bone has fused with the implant, the next stage begins, which is placing a crown, bridge or denture on it. To do this, the doctor makes precise impressions, based on which the dental technician prepares an individually tailored prosthetic restoration. After this is made, the restoration is mounted on the implant, and the patient regains the full functionality and aesthetics of the smile.
Different types of dental implants
There are different types of dental implants available on the market, which differ in terms of the division of implant types, the material they are made of, their shape, and the method of attachment. In the following subsections, we will discuss these aspects to help you understand the differences between the different types of implants.
Division of implant types: from single-phase to two-phase
The division of implant types can be done in many ways, but one of the most important is the division into single-phase and two-phase implants.
- Single-phase implants are implanted into the bone in one procedure, and their part protruding above the gum surface is used to attach a crown, bridge, or denture. The advantage of this solution is a shorter treatment time, but it may not be suitable for all patients.
- Two-phase implants, on the other hand, require two surgical procedures. In the first stage, the implant is placed in the bone and then covered with gum to allow for healing and fusion with the bone. After a few weeks or months, a second procedure is performed, during which the implant is exposed, and the prosthetic restoration is mounted on it. Two-phase implants are more common and considered more predictable, but they take longer to heal than single-phase implants.
Material of construction: titanium, zirconium, and ceramic implants
The material used to make dental implants is crucial for their durability, biocompatibility, and aesthetics. The most popular material used in the production of implants is titanium implants, which are characterized by high strength, lightness, and excellent biocompatibility with the body. Titanium is also resistant to corrosion, which translates into a long life of implants.
An alternative to titanium implants are zirconium implants and ceramic implants. Zirconium implants are made of zirconium oxide, which also has high biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. The advantage of zirconium implants is their white color, which makes them practically invisible under the gum. Ceramic implants, on the other hand, are made of ceramic materials such as zirconium oxide or aluminum oxide. They are also biocompatible, aesthetic and corrosion-resistant, but may be less durable than titanium implants.
Shape and method of attaching implants
The shape of implants and the method of attaching prosthetic restorations to them also differ depending on the type of implant. Implants can have a cylindrical, conical, or radicular shape, and their surface can be smooth, porous or covered with special coatings that support bone fusion. The method of attaching prosthetic restorations to implants can be based on a screw system, cement, or on clasps. The choice of the appropriate shape and method of attachment depends on the individual needs of the patient and the preferences of the implantologist.
The most popular types of implants on the market
The dental implant market offers the most popular types of implants, which differ in terms of design, material, and the system of fixing the prosthetic restorations. Some of the most popular brands of dental implants are Straumann, Nobel BioCare, Dentsply Sirona, and Zimmer Biomet. Choosing the right type of implant depends on many factors, such as the patient's health, bone density, aesthetic expectations, and the budget for treatment.
The process of placing dental implants
In order to fully understand the process of placing dental implants , it is helpful to review the individual steps of the implant surgery, where the implant is placed, and the potential risks and problems associated with this type of treatment.
Implant surgery: from implant placement to crown
Implant surgery begins with a thorough treatment plan that includes an analysis of the patient's health, the amount of jawbone, and aesthetic expectations. Then, the dental implant is placed in the jawbone, which can take place in one or two stages, depending on the type of implant. After the healing process and the implant has fused with the bone, the stage of placing a crown on the implant takes place, which is an aesthetic and functional replacement for the missing tooth.
Implant placement site: jawbone and tissue covering
The location of the dental implant is crucial to the success of the treatment. The implants are placed in the jawbone, which must be thick and strong enough to permanently support the implant. In the case of insufficient bone tissue, it may be necessary to perform a bone augmentation procedure before placing the implant. After the implant is placed, the tissue is covered with gum tissue, which serves to protect the implant from bacteria and ensure the aesthetic appearance of the prosthetic restoration.
Potential Risks and Problems with the Implant
Although implant treatment is considered safe and effective, there are some potential risks and problems with the implant that can occur. The most important include:
- infections around the implant,
- allergic reactions to implant material,
- damage to nerves or adjacent teeth,
- failure of the implant to fuse with the bone,
- bone loss around the implant,
- problems with the prosthetic restoration, such as breakage of the crown or fixing screw.
In order to minimize the risk of these problems, it is essential to follow the recommendations of the implantologist, maintain oral hygiene, and have regular check-ups.
Choosing the type of implant
The decision to have dental implant treatment involves choosing the type of implant and understanding the costs associated with this type of treatment
How to choose an implant? What to look for?
When choosing an implant, it is worth paying attention to several key aspects that will affect the success of the treatment and the patient's comfort. Here are some of them:
- Implant type: single-phase or two-phase,
- Material of manufacture: titanium, zirconium or ceramic,
- The shape and method of attaching the implant,
- The brand and reputation of the implant manufacturer,
- Experience and skills of the implantologist.
It is important to consult your expectations and needs with an implantologist who will help you select the right type of implant and develop an individual treatment plan.
Dental Implant Prices
Dental implant prices may vary depending on the brand, material used, and type of implant. When comparing prices, it is worth paying attention to the value of implants, i.e. quality, durability, and comfort of use.
When choosing an implant, it is worth paying attention to the manufacturer's reputation and the experience of the implantologist, as these factors are crucial for the success of the treatment and the durability of the implant.
Post-implant care and duration of use
In this section, we will discuss how to care for dental implants after they have been placed and the expected lifespan of implants. Providing proper post-implant care and being aware of the lifespan of implants is key to maintaining oral health and the long-term success of implant treatment.
How to care for dental implants?
When taking care of dental implants, there are a few basic rules to remember that will help keep the implants in good condition and ensure their long-term functioning. Here are some of them:
- Brush your teeth regularly at least twice a day, using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste,
- Using dental floss or an irrigator to clean interdental spaces,
- Avoiding hard and sticky foods that may damage the implant or crown,
- Regular check-ups with your dentist, at least once every six months,
- Avoiding smoking, which can lead to complications and loss of the implant.
Proper oral hygiene and care of dental implants are crucial to maintaining oral health and the long-term success of implant treatment.
Implant Lifespan: When to Replace?
The lifespan of implants depends on many factors, such as the material used to make the implant, the quality of the bone on which it was placed, and the patient's general health. In the case of proper care and no complications, dental implants can last up to 20-25 years, and sometimes even longer.
However, it is worth remembering that prosthetic crowns placed on implants may need to be replaced after about 10-15 years of use, due to natural wear and tear of the material and changes in the appearance of the crown. If problems with the implant occur, such as bone loss or infection, it may be necessary to replace the implant earlier or additional treatment procedures.
Regular check-ups with your dentist and care for your dental implants are crucial to monitoring the condition of your implants and detecting any problems early, which allows for appropriate action and extends the life of your implants.
In Conclusion
In this article, we have provided a comprehensive guide to dental implant treatment, discussing the different types of dental implants, the process of placing them, choosing the right type of implant, and the costs associated with treatment. We have also discussed post-implant care and the duration of dental implant use. Types of dental implants can be divided according to the treatment phase (single-phase, two-phase), the material used (titanium, zirconium, ceramic), and the shape and method of attachment. The choice of the right type of implant depends on the individual needs of the patient, the condition of the bone, and the dentist's recommendations. Contact us today to discuss your options for your implants!