Dental implants
Dental implants are titanium screws that are operated into the jawbone. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root on which one or more crowns can be attached. Titanium is a kind of metal that has a unique ability to grow in to our jawbone and goes well with our body’s tissues.
The treatment consists of two parts
An implant treatment consists of a surgical part and a prosthetic part. In the surgical part, Dental implants are operated into the jawbone and in the prosthetic part the teeth that are to be attached to the implant are manufactured.
Important with good oral hygiene
For the implant to last a long time, extra careful oral hygiene and regular check-ups are required at the dentist or dental hygienist. The oral hygiene at the implant must be at least as good as at the own teeth. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to tissue disorders surrounding the implant.
In the worst case, the implant may come loose. To facilitate cleaning, the new tooth is designed so that it can be accessed with toothbrush and various aids.
Dental implants FAQ, Questions and answers
Can all get implants?
Yes, most people can get implants. Health can, however, be decisive. Implant treatment is not appropriate for children and adolescents who are still growing. It is important that there is sufficient jaw bone of good quality to attach the implant in. This is assessed, among other things, by means of an X-ray examination.
How does the surgical part go?
The screw is operated into the jawbone during local anaesthesia. If needed, you can get calming medication before treatment. Sometimes you need to do two operations. In the first operation, the implant screw is inserted into the jaw. In the second and minor operation, one prepares a platform for the new tooth. In some cases, both can be done simultaneously.
A prerequisite for the operation to be performed is that the own oral hygiene is very good. Dental hygienist or dentist shows and informs about suitable aids.
How long does the surgery take?
The operation itself takes between 30 and 90 minutes depending on how many implants are to be inserted. However, expect that the entire visit can take up to two hours. After the operation, in most cases you can go home immediately.
Does it hurt?
No, it shouldn’t hurt. The operation is done in local anaesthesia, in the same way as when, for example, a tooth is made. After the surgery, you need painkillers to counteract discomfort when the anaesthetic releases. These drugs also reduce swelling in the surgical area.
Will I have trouble after surgery?
During the first week after surgery, it is normal to feel some tenderness and swelling. You can sometimes also get bruises on the face, most commonly after surgery in the upper jaw.
As a rule, painkillers are needed after surgery. It is generally enough with regular non-prescription preparations, but if necessary, the dentist writes out stronger painkillers.
Can I use my dental replacement after surgery?
If you have a comprehensive prosthesis, you have to expect to be without your tooth replacement until the stitches are removed, so as not to burden the mucous membrane and interfere with healing in the area. If you have a minor tooth replacement, your dentist may in some cases adjust it so that it can be used immediately after the operation.
Can I eat before and after surgery?
You can eat as usual before surgery but wait a couple of hours to not interfere with healing. Avoid hard-to-eat food. If you are completely toothless in the operated jaw, you should eat liquid or finely divided food the next few days after the operation.
Keep in mind that intake of alcohol may cause a risk of increased bleeding.
Can I brush my teeth as usual?
To avoid infections and reduce the risk of complications, it is important to keep clean around the implant. Avoid brushing in the operating area. In the beginning, it may be helpful to rinse with chlorhexidine solution.
What if I use tobacco?
Smoking and sniffing impair healing. The less tobacco you use, the better the prognosis for implant treatment.
Do I need to be on sick leave?
Usually this is not needed. Discuss with the dentist if there is a need.
What happens after surgery?
The implant needs time to heal in the jawbone. The time needed for your implant is assessed during surgery. Before the new tooth can be put in place, generally expect 1.5 to 4 months of inoculation.
What does the prosthetic part mean?
The treatment starts with an impression of the implanted implant. A color take is done either by the dentist or the dental technician.
The imprint is then sent to a dental technician. This starts the work with the dental crown (s) that, in color and form, must match your teeth in general.
At the next visit, the dental crown can be completely clear or one or more tests are needed. Often the treatment takes between 2-4 weeks.
How to attach the tooth to the implant?
The tooth is screwed or cemented to the implant.
What should I use for aids?
In most cases, it works well with common aids such as toothbrush, dental floss and spacer brush. Sometimes special aids may need to be used. Your dentist and dental hygienist will assist you with advice and instructions on how to best manage your implant.