Examination and Diagnostics Before Implant Placement
The dentist performs a preliminary examination to clarify the requirements and indications. The process begins with taking the patient’s medical history. The patient is asked about existing general health conditions and previous medical treatments. This is followed by a dental examination assessing the entire oral cavity, including the mucosa, teeth, and jawbone. CT or CBCT imaging provides detailed information about the condition of the bone and surrounding structures.
Only Healthy Oral Conditions Are Ready for Implant Placement
After the initial examination, a so-called pre-treatment phase takes place, during which issues such as diseased teeth and gingival inflammation are treated. In this phase, the patient is also educated on the special oral hygiene requirements needed for implant therapy.
Steps of Implant Therapy
Once the preparatory work is complete, the implant placement begins. In uncomplicated cases, implant placement is considered a minor surgical procedure from a dental perspective, performed under local anesthesia. Patient stress levels, however, can vary widely – approximately comparable to a surgical tooth extraction, such as a wisdom tooth removal.
After exposing the intended bone area via a mucosal incision, a hole is drilled in the jawbone for each implant, and the implant body is inserted into the hole (screwed in). It is crucial that the implant sits firmly in the bone. The implant body is closed with a screw, and the mucosa over the implantation site is sutured.
Following osseointegration – the fusion of the implant with the bone – typically after 3–4 months, a gingiva former is placed on the implant to shape the gum for the prosthetic restoration.
When the gingiva former is removed (after 7 days), an impression is taken for the creation of the prosthetic work, and in collaboration with dental laboratory technicians, the appearance of the teeth is planned.
Possible Additional Procedures During Implant Placement
Bone Regeneration
Successful implant placement requires a sufficient amount of healthy bone to provide stable anchorage for the implant. When bone is lacking due to tooth extraction, inflammation, or long-term denture use, bone regeneration is performed – a procedure that stimulates new bone growth using specialized materials and techniques. This therapy ensures a strong foundation for the implant and helps maintain long-term jaw and surrounding tooth health.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift, or maxillary sinus floor elevation, is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in the posterior upper jaw, usually prior to implant placement. When there is insufficient bone between the oral cavity and sinus due to tooth loss or natural anatomy, bone material is added to the sinus to promote new bone formation. This creates a stable and safe foundation for placing implants in the posterior upper premolar and molar regions.
What Follows After Implant Placement and Osseointegration
After the implant is placed in the bone, an osseointegration period follows – the process in which the implant fuses with the bone, typically lasting several months. During this time, the implant becomes stable and ready for the prosthetic phase.
Once successful integration has occurred, the implant is “opened,” and an abutment is placed, which connects the implant to the future prosthetic crown. Finally, a dental crown is fabricated and placed, perfectly mimicking a natural tooth in both appearance and function. This step completes the smile restoration process, making the implant a permanent, aesthetic, and functional solution.
Are There Contraindications for Implant Placement?
Although dental implants are a solution that most patients can safely receive, there are certain situations in which implantation is not recommended or is postponed. These include untreated periodontal disease, insufficient bone quantity without the possibility of augmentation, and systemic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or serious cardiovascular diseases. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, and inadequate dental care can also reduce the success rate of the procedure. In any case, the dentist performs a thorough evaluation of the patient’s overall and oral health before the procedure to ensure long-term implant success.
Conclusion
Dental implant placement is one of the most modern and effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. It provides a natural appearance, stability, and longevity while preserving the health of surrounding teeth and bone. With proper preparation, high-quality bone regeneration, and carefully planned prosthetic phases, implants can last for decades. The key to success lies in an individualized approach, expertly performed surgery, and regular follow-up dental care.
