Dental implantation

What is Dental Implantation?

Implantation is a surgical procedure in which a titanium or zirconia post is inserted into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a crown is placed on top, replicating the appearance and function of a natural tooth. This technology ensures a natural and durable result.

Indications and Contraindications

Implantation requires thorough diagnosis. The dentist assesses the patient’s general health, bone condition, oral hygiene, and any comorbidities to determine readiness for implantation or the need for pre-treatment.

Indications:

• Absence of one or more teeth;
• Complete tooth loss (edentulism) with refusal or contraindication to removable dentures;
• Irreparable damage to crown and root;
• Lack of abutment teeth for bridges;
• Allergy to removable prosthesis materials;
• Preference for fixed over removable solutions;
• Sufficient bone volume (or potential for grafting).

Absolute contraindications:

• Active cancer;
• Severe uncontrolled diabetes;
• Major psychiatric disorders;
• Blood diseases (e.g., bleeding disorders);
• Immunodeficiency;
• Active inflammation in the body;
• Drug or alcohol addiction.

Relative contraindications:

• Smoking (especially more than 10 cigarettes/day);
• Chronic diseases in acute phase;
• Pregnancy/lactation;
• Bite issues needing orthodontic correction;
• Inadequate bone volume (may need grafting);
• Poor oral hygiene;
• Under 18 years old (incomplete jaw growth).

Implantation Process

Implantation includes several stages:

1. Preparation

• Medical history, allergy review, CT scan, lab tests
• Oral sanitation (treating caries, inflammation)
• Removing non-viable teeth and cleaning

2. Surgical Stage

• Local anesthesia or sedation
• Gum incision and bone drilling
• Implant placement
• Placement of healing cap or temporary crown
• Suturing and post-op care

3. Healing (2–6 months)

• Bone integration with implant (osseointegration)
• Antibiotics, antiseptic rinses, diet, check-ups

4. Final Restoration

• Placement of gum former (if needed)
• Impressions or digital scans
• Installation of permanent crown (e.g., zirconia or metal-ceramic)

Implantation Methods:

• Classic (2-stage): Implant placed, then crown after 3–6 months
• Immediate (1-stage): Implant and temporary crown placed at once
• Mini implants: Used in limited bone cases, especially for denture support
• Combined approaches: Tailored plans mixing methods

Types of Implants:

• Titanium: Durable, most widely used, excellent osseointegration
• Zirconia: White, hypoallergenic, more aesthetic but more fragile and expensive

Dental implantation restores not only functionality but the natural appearance of a smile. The success depends on the surgeon’s skill, precise diagnostics, and post-op care. MARUS helps patients find reliable clinics and optimal treatment paths.