Losing one or more teeth impacts oral health, smile aesthetics and quality of life. Fortunately, dental implants offer a durable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring a full, functional smile. We'll guide you through the dental implant process, the long-term benefits, the materials used and post-operative care. You'll be fully informed about this tooth replacement option offered by Helvident clinics.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium, biocompatible and integrated into the jawbone. It supports a prosthetic crownimplant, which replaces the visible part of the tooth. The implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, ensuring exceptional stability and durability.
The dental implant process: step by step
Dental implantation is a surgical procedure performed under local anesthetic. Here are the main steps:
- Consulting and planning : clinical and radiological examination to assess oral health and the quantity and quality of the jawbone. A personalized treatment plan is then drawn up.
- Implant placement : the titanium implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone.
- Osseointegration period : a period of several months is required to allow the implant to fuse with the bone.
- Pillar installation : an abutment, which acts as a connector between the implant and the crown, is attached to the implant.
- Fitting the crown : a prosthetic crown, custom-made to match the natural teeth, is attached to the abutment.
The advantages of dental implants :
- Natural aesthetics : implant-supported crowns are designed to perfectly mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
- Functionality restored : dental implants help restore efficient mastication and clear phonation.
- Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
- Bone preservation : implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone resorption that can occur after surgery. tooth loss.
- Comfort and self-confidence: dental implants offer a stable, comfortable solution, improving quality of life and self-confidence.
Materials used at Helvident
Helvident clinics use high-quality titanium implants. They come from manufacturers renowned for their reliable, biocompatible materials. We offer different types of implants, adapted to the specific needs of each patient:
- Classic implants : for patients with sufficient bone.
- Short implants : for patients with limited bone quantity.
- Zygomatic implants : an alternative to bone grafts in certain cases.
Post-operative care
After dental implant placement, it's important to follow the dentist's recommendations to ensure proper healing and successful treatment. A oral hygiene is essential, as are regular inspection visits.
What are the contraindications to dental implant surgery?
There are a number of contraindications to dental implant placement, which can be classified as absolute (making placement impossible) and relative (requiring in-depth assessment and/or prior treatment).
Absolute contraindications:
- Recent radiotherapy to the jaw: radiotherapy weakens the bone and compromises healing, making osseointegration difficult or impossible.
- Certain bone diseases: diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta can affect bone quality and prevent implants from being placed.
- Taking certain medications: for example, bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis can increase the risk of jaw necrosis.
- Ongoing chemotherapy : chemotherapy weakens the immune system and increases the risk of infection.
- Uncontrolled autoimmune diseases : these diseases can interfere with healing and osseointegration.
- Very poor oral hygiene : a poor hygiene considerably increases the risk of infection and implant failure.
- Heavy smoking : smoking compromises vascularization and healing, increasing the risk of implant failure.
- Pregnancy: implants are generally not recommended during pregnancy.
Relative contraindications :
- Uncontrolled diabetes: diabetes can affect healing and increase the risk of infection. Good control of diabetes is essential before considering implants.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding): the bruxism may exert excessive pressure on implants, increasing the risk of fracture. Treatment of bruxism, such as wearing an occlusal splint, may be necessary.
- Periodontal diseases : Gum disease must be treated before implants are placed. Good periodontal health is essential for the long-term success of implants.
- Insufficient quantity or quality of bone : bone grafting may be necessary to increase bone volume and enable implants to be placed.
- Growing children and adolescents: implant placement is generally deferred until bone growth is complete.
This list is not exhaustive. Only a thorough examination by a dentist or implantologist can determine whether implant placement is feasible and safe in each individual case. Consult a professional for a personalized assessment.
Helvident clinics offer you expertise in implantologyWe use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to guarantee optimal results. Please contact us to make an appointment and discuss your needs with our implantology specialists in Lausanne, Fribourg and Aigle.
