THE IMPORTANCE OF REPLACING LOST TEETH
The most recommended option for the rehabilitation or replacement of lost teeth is dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are medical devices made of a titanium alloy that are implanted into the bone where a natural tooth is missing. In other words, the implant is an artificial root of the absent tooth that will support a crown. Consequently, they are considered ideal for oral rehabilitation.
What are the steps for placing dental implants?
Firstly, we must PLAN the case, with clinical and radiographic examinations, as well as analyze some medical tests, ensuring that there is good oral and general health for the conduction of the dental implant.
After this planning, we proceed to the SURGERY, which is simple, performed in the office with local anaesthesia. On the same day, temporary prostheses/crowns can be placed.
The RESTORATIVE PHASE aims to provide chewing function and aesthetics. It may occur on the day of surgery or up to 6 months after implant placement depending on the case.
Finally, there should be MAINTENANCE of the dental implant, through oral hygiene care and regular visits to the dentist to ensure the durability of the implant.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The main advantage is that they are similar to natural teeth, both aesthetically and in terms of self-confidence, as well as providing phonetic and chewing function. Another benefit is the ease of cleaning, as they are like a natural tooth.
Is there a minimum and maximum age for getting implants?
In general, until craniofacial growth is completed, implant placement is contraindicated, so we should wait until around 18 years of age.
There is no maximum age for dental implant placement; however, more specific and detailed planning based on medical history and overall well-being is necessary.
Can diabetic and smoking patients get implants?
Yes, they can, but they should be alerted to the risks posed by their current condition.
Several studies suggest that smokers of more than ten cigarettes a day or uncontrolled type I or II diabetics may decrease the implant survival rate by 6 to 10%.
In these cases, patients undergo periodic controls at shorter intervals (every 3 months).
Can patients with osteoporosis get dental implants?
Yes. In most cases, it is possible to consider placement of dental implants for patients with ostheoporosis. These patients are usually orally medicated with bisphosphonates, which reduce the activity of bone tissue cells. However, it is highly unlikely for the implant to not integrate into the bone. On the other hand, in cases where there is an aggravation of the clinical condition and the need for intravenous therapy, implant placement is contraindicated.
What are the contraindications for implant placement?
Currently, there are few absolute contraindications for implant surgery.
The occurrence of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), a stroke, or an acute myocardial infarction WITHIN 6 months contraindicates any intervention. Simillarly, uncontrolled or undergoing treatment for cancer (chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy) or intravenous treatments with bisphosphonates are absolute contraindications. In such cases, removable rehabilitation (removable dentures) is proposed to improve chewing function in these cases.
What is the lifespan of an implant?
To sum up, with effective oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, we can expect the implant to have a very significant long-term survival and success rate.
