Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium artificial tooth root placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Learn how implant treatment, healing and aftercare work at ADEN Dental in Ankara.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small, screw-shaped artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium, that is placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Once it has fused with the surrounding bone, it provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge or denture.
Titanium is a biocompatible material that the body tolerates well and that can bond directly with bone tissue. This bonding process is known as osseointegration and forms the biological basis of implant treatment, allowing chewing forces to be transferred to the bone much like a natural tooth root.
Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several teeth or a complete arch. Unlike a conventional bridge, an implant does not require the neighbouring healthy teeth to be ground down.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
Implant treatment is considered for adults whose jawbone has finished growing and whose general health allows a minor surgical procedure. Suitability depends on bone volume, gum health and any existing medical conditions.
Uncontrolled diabetes, advanced bone loss, certain medications and heavy smoking can all influence planning. For this reason, the definitive treatment plan is determined through a detailed clinical examination and radiographic assessment by the dentist.
- Patients missing a single tooth who prefer not to involve the neighbouring teeth
- Patients with several missing teeth who are looking for a fixed restoration instead of a removable denture
- Denture wearers who want better stability and chewing comfort
What Restoration Options Can Implants Support?
Depending on the number and position of the missing teeth, several types of restoration can be planned on implants. A single implant can carry an individual crown, while two or more implants can support a fixed bridge without touching the natural teeth.
In cases of complete tooth loss, implant-retained removable dentures or fixed full-arch restorations supported by four to six implants may be considered. The most appropriate option is decided together with the patient after clinical and radiographic evaluation.
How Does the Process Work at ADEN Dental?
Treatment begins with a comprehensive oral examination at our clinic in the Çukurambar district of Ankara. Panoramic X-rays and, where necessary, three-dimensional dental tomography are used to assess bone volume, bone density and anatomical structures such as the sinuses and nerves.
During the planning stage, the number, diameter, length and position of the implants are defined, and the patient's medical history and current medications are reviewed. If the bone volume is insufficient, additional procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift can be included in the plan.
The implant is usually placed under local anaesthesia, and a single implant typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The aim is a comfortable procedure without pain; sedation options can be discussed with the dentist if desired.
After placement, follow-up appointments are scheduled throughout the healing period. Once osseointegration is complete, impressions are taken and the permanent crown or prosthesis is fabricated and attached to the implant, restoring chewing function.
How Long Does Healing Take?
The fusion of the implant with the bone usually takes between two and six months, depending on bone quality, the treated area and individual healing capacity. The lower jaw often heals faster than the upper jaw because its bone is denser.
Mild swelling, tenderness or discomfort may occur in the first few days after surgery. These symptoms are usually managed with the pain relief and cold compresses recommended by the dentist and subside within a short time. If they last longer than expected, contacting the clinic is advised.
Aftercare and Long-Term Maintenance
The long-term health of an implant depends largely on daily oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. The gum tissue around an implant needs the same careful attention as the gums around natural teeth, as inflammation in this area can affect the supporting bone.
- Brush twice a day and clean around the implant with interdental brushes or floss
- Attend check-ups and professional cleanings at the intervals recommended by your dentist, usually every six months
- Reduce or stop smoking, as it can impair healing and gum health
- Avoid biting on hard objects or using your teeth as tools
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so pain is not expected during placement. Mild soreness or sensitivity afterwards usually settles within a few days with the pain relief recommended by your dentist.
Placing a single implant usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Including the healing period of two to six months and the prosthetic stage, the complete treatment is generally finished within three to eight months.
With good daily oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can remain in function for many years. Their lifespan depends on individual factors such as oral hygiene, general health and smoking.
Titanium is biocompatible, so rejection in the classical sense does not occur. In rare cases an implant may fail to integrate with the bone; after evaluation, the area can usually be re-planned and treated again.
Implants may not be appropriate for people whose jaw growth is not complete, or for patients with uncontrolled systemic disease, previous radiotherapy to the head and neck, or the use of certain medications. The final decision is made after a clinical examination and imaging.