But what are dental implants anyway?
These are artificial teeth that, like natural teeth, have a root and a crown. The artificial root is positioned in place of the tooth root and the crown is screwed onto it. The root of the implant is made from a safe and resistant material (zirconium or titanium) with the latest technology to ensure that it can be used for many years. The crown, on the other hand, is made individually in the dental laboratory, according to the characteristics of each tooth. This way we give you a tooth that is very similar to a natural tooth.
Today, dental implants are considered the best option for replacing a natural tooth. Everyone knows it’s long-lasting, but there are other advantages too:
Unlike fixed bridges, their placement does not require wearing down neighboring teeth, making the treatment conservative. Compared to removable prostheses, in addition to their greater durability, they are more aesthetic and more comfortable for the patient.
Smile back in just 1 day?
The All-on-4 technique is often used for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth and are looking for a more permanent and stable solution than traditional dentures. The four implants are strategically placed at specific angles to maximize contact with the bone, allowing for greater stability and support.
This technique can often be completed in just one or two appointments, and patients can leave with a fully functional set of replacement teeth that look and feel like natural teeth. It is also a cost-effective solution compared to placing a separate implant for each missing tooth.
How it works?
First appointment
General assessment and oral hygiene
Computed tomography and planning
1- Before the procedure: A general assessment and thorough oral hygiene must be carried out, thus preparing the mouth to receive the implant in the best condition. 2- Computed tomography A computed tomography scan is then carried out for a detailed analysis in three dimensions. This examination is essential for correct planning, as we need to visualize anatomical details such as the position of the nerve and the thickness of the bone in order to define the ideal place for the future implant, without running the risk of damaging important structures. The implant specialist plans the placement of the implant(s) according to this information (position, size, type of implant, need for another resource, or corrective surgery). The treatment plan and budget are presented to the patient. 3- Surgical phase: At this appointment, the specialist screws the implant into the predefined place. The same local anesthesia is used as for other routine dental procedures. 4- Final crown: After the first phase, called osseointegration (the phase in which the bone and implant form a union), the specialist takes molds of the implant and orders a customized crown on implant from the laboratory. Screw-retained ceramic crowns are considered the best for this purpose in most cases.
Implant abutment in preset place
Definitive crown
Dr. Tiago Rodrigues
Specialist in Dental Implants
My clinical experience extends across Portugal, the Netherlands, and the UAE.
I'm a lifelong sports enthusiast, transitioning from competitive basketball to conquering marathons and Ironman events.
I'm the specialist in dental implants, and I'm here to guide you towards your perfect smile goal.
Shall we continue together?
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FAQ
I've lost a tooth. How long can I wait before an implant is placed?
In simple cases, on average 4-6 months from the surgical phase to the final crown. If the quality of the bone is favourable, this time can be even shorter.
How many teeth can I replace with a dental implant?
Depending on your needs, we can place just one or several implants.
What are the types of dental implants?
Single implants:
as their name suggests, they replace just one tooth.
Fixed implant bridge:
When more teeth have been lost, it is not necessary to place dental implants in the place of each one, only where they will serve as a pillar for the bridge.
All-on-4, All-on-6:
If you need to replace all your upper and/or lower jaw teeth, but don't want the discomfort of wearing a removable prosthesis, this is the best solution for you. This recent protocol makes it possible to deliver a fixed total prosthesis by strategically placing just four or six implants. Fixed teeth in one day: After surgery, you'll rest while the laboratory makes your prosthesis, which will be delivered the same day. This way, you can leave the clinic with your smile already restored. A few months later, you will need to replace this first prosthesis with a permanent one.
Overdenture:
This is a more stable removable prosthesis. Your prosthesis is secured with two or four implants, but in such a way that you can remove it for daily hygiene. Especially in the case of the lower jaw, where the frequent complaint is that the prosthesis "moves in the mouth", the overdenture will provide greater comfort.
I want to get a dental implant, but I'm afraid I won't have enough bone.
With the evolution of techniques and materials, today, even in cases where the quality and quantity of bone are unfavourable, we have several resources for rehabilitation with implants.
What should I know before having a dental implant fitted?
Before the procedure, an assessment will be carried out, where you can discuss your doubts and pre- and post-operative care with your dentist. It is important that all your questions are answered. If you have any medical conditions or allergies, you should tell your dentist.
How long do implants last?
With the evolution of materials and techniques, implants are lasting longer and longer. In addition to the right technique and materials, the patient's co-operation and habits are also important factors in their longevity.
Have more Questions?
Our team will happily answer them all by phone at +351 939 051 791 or geral@puradentalstudio.com