Dental implants are artificial roots made of titanium that are placed in the bone and support crowns, bridges or dentures in place of lost teeth. Placement is done under local anaesthesia, but it is not suitable for everyone: a clinical and X-ray assessment always comes first.
What dental implants are
An implant is a small screw-shaped post made of titanium that plays the role of the tooth root. It is placed in the jawbone and, over time, the bone fuses with it (osseointegration). The prosthetic restoration, i.e. the part that is visible in the mouth, is fixed onto the implant: a crown for one tooth, a bridge for several or a denture that is held firmly in place.
The aim is stable support, better chewing, comfort in speech and a more natural smile. Implants are one of the restoration options and not the only one; the right choice depends on each mouth.
When an implant may be needed
The discussion about an implant usually arises when:
- a tooth is missing and you want to avoid grinding down the neighbouring teeth for a bridge,
- several teeth are missing and the restoration needs better support,
- a denture moves or does not serve you well for chewing,
- a tooth cannot be saved and an extraction has been scheduled.
Losing a tooth is not only an aesthetic matter. Over the years the bone in the area can recede, the neighbouring teeth can drift and the tooth in the opposite jaw can «drop down». This is why replacement is worth considering early.
Who can have implants
Not all patients are suitable, at least not without preparation. The following are assessed:
- your general health and the medication you take (for example, poorly controlled diabetes or certain osteoporosis treatments need particular care),
- the quantity and quality of the bone,
- gum health and oral hygiene,
- smoking, which has a negative effect on healing,
- any habits such as bruxism, which overload the restoration.
If there is little bone, there are techniques to build it up, which are decided after the examination. The final decision is always made after a clinical examination and the appropriate X-ray assessment.
How the treatment is done, step by step
1. Examination and planning
The dentist examines the teeth and gums, takes your medical history and requests X-rays. In many cases 3D imaging is also needed, so that the bone can be seen accurately. This is where the treatment plan is set and the stages and alternatives are explained to you.
2. Preparation
Any infection, decay or gum disease is treated first. If the bone is not sufficient, a bone augmentation procedure may be needed beforehand.
3. Placement of the implant
Under local anaesthesia, a small opening is made in the gum and bone and the implant is placed in the planned position. The gum is stitched, and no pain is expected during the procedure.
4. Healing
The bone needs time to stabilise the implant. The time varies from case to case and is determined by the dentist, usually in months rather than days.
5. Prosthetic restoration
Once stability is sufficient, an impression is taken and the crown, bridge or denture that will be fixed onto the implant is made.
Duration and healing
The placement itself usually takes less time than most patients expect, depending on the number of implants. In the first few days mild discomfort, swelling or sensitivity are normal and gradually subside. The following help:
- cold applied externally for the first few hours,
- soft, not hot foods for a few days,
- careful cleaning of the area as you are shown,
- avoiding smoking and taking the medication your dentist recommends.
Risks and when to contact the dentist
Like any surgical procedure, implant placement carries possible complications: infection, delayed healing or insufficient integration with the bone. In the long term, implants can be affected by inflammation of the surrounding tissues (peri-implantitis) if oral hygiene is poor. Regular follow-up is part of the treatment.
Contact the practice immediately if you notice severe pain that increases instead of subsiding, significant swelling, fever, pus or bleeding that does not stop, or if the implant or the restoration moves.
Alternative solutions
- Fixed bridge: it is supported on the neighbouring teeth, which need to be ground down.
- Partial or complete denture: a removable solution, which can also be supported on implants for greater stability.
- Waiting without restoration: an option that has consequences for chewing and for the position of the neighbouring teeth.
The dentist will explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option for your case.
Frequently asked questions
Does implant placement hurt?
Placement is done under local anaesthesia, so no pain is expected during the procedure. Afterwards there may be mild discomfort, swelling or sensitivity for a few days, depending on the case.
Can all patients have implants?
Not always. An assessment is needed of your general health, the quality and quantity of the bone, oral hygiene, smoking and other factors.
How long does an implant last?
There is no fixed duration for everyone. It depends on the health of the gums, oral hygiene, smoking and regular follow-up.
Do I need to have teeth to get an implant?
No. Implants can also be placed in mouths with no teeth, as long as there is sufficient bone or it can be built up.
Book an appointment
If you are thinking of replacing a tooth, you can book an appointment at our practice in Thessaloniki, at Tsimiski 111, for an examination and information on the options that suit you.
Every mouth is different. The appropriate treatment is recommended after a clinical examination.
