Dental implants in Sofia

What are dental implants?

Dental implants act as substitutes for the roots, have a screw-like shape, and are placed beneath the gum. Typically, these screws are made of titanium, which is biocompatible with the human body. The implant fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration.

After a few weeks, the screw fully integrates with the jawbone, and then an abutment and crown can be placed on it. The titanium screw provides a secure base on which an artificial tooth or bridge can be placed.

Dental implants have long surpassed being an innovation in dentistry and are increasingly used as a solution for missing teeth. The placement of dental implants is considered to have the highest success rate compared to implants in other parts of the body (e.g., artificial joints).

Implantology is a branch of dentistry that is attracting increasing interest. Alongside this growth, technologies are advancing, making dental implants the best alternative for various oral problems that would otherwise be challenging to overcome.

Initially, implants were subperiosteal, made of steel, and could offer everything but patient comfort. After years of research, the practice has evolved to the perfected endosteal implantation used today.

Types of dental implants

When it comes to dental implants, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Different patients require different types of dental implants based on factors such as bone density, oral health, personal preferences, and the nature of the dental issue.

We will explore three commonly used types of dental implants: Endosteal implants, Subperiosteal implants, and Basal implants.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most commonly used type of dental implants. They are placed directly into the jawbone and serve as an artificial root for the tooth replacement. The shape of endosteal implants often resembles small screws or cylinders, typically made of titanium.

The process involves two stages: firstly, an endosteal implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the surrounding tissue has healed, which typically takes a few weeks, a second surgery is performed.

During this stage, an abutment is attached to the original implant, onto which the artificial tooth (or teeth) can be mounted. Endosteal implants can support a single tooth replacement or dental bridges.

Endosteal or screw-type implants appear the most natural, which is why they are preferred by patients. They have the least risk of rejection since they are made of titanium, a material whose chemical composition is biocompatible with the human body.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants offer an alternative solution for patients who lack sufficient healthy natural jawbone or cannot undergo a bone augmentation procedure. Unlike endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants aren't placed within the jawbone. Instead, they sit atop the bone but beneath the gum.

The subperiosteal implant consists of a metal frame that's attached to the jawbone. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which protrude through the gums, are then attached to this frame to mount artificial teeth.

Basal Implants

Basal implants, also known as cortical or bicortical implants, differ from other implant types as they utilize the cortical regions of the jawbone which are highly resistant to resorption.

One advantage of basal implants is that they can be immediately loaded, meaning tooth replacements can be installed almost instantly post the implantation surgery. There's no need to wait for the implant to fuse with the bone, a process known as osseointegration.

This makes them a prime choice for patients with reduced bone volume and density or for those who've experienced bone loss due to periodontal disease or tooth extraction.

Specialists from Kavident dental clinic are always available for consultations about the best solution for you, emphasizing that an individual approach is paramount for achieving optimal results.

This process typically begins with an examination and radiographic diagnosis to ascertain the state of the bone. Then, the treatment plan is executed, allowing us soon after to flaunt a new, perfect smile.

Choosing the right type of dental implant is a decision best made in consultation with a dental specialist. Our experts from Kavident will review your oral health and personal circumstances to recommend the most suitable implant type.

Whether you opt for endosteal, subperiosteal, or basal implants, each provides a reliable solution for restoring the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.

Placing dental implants

Dental implants represent a revolutionary advancement in restorative dentistry, offering a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. By mimicking the natural structure of a tooth, dental implants not only restore the aesthetic appearance of your smile but also aid in maintaining oral health.

Initial consultation

During the initial consultation, our specialist from Kavident will conduct a comprehensive oral examination. This may include X-rays or 3D imaging to assess the state of your jawbone, gums, and remaining teeth. This evaluation is crucial to determine whether you're a suitable candidate for dental implants and to plan the subsequent treatment.

Treatment planning

Based on the findings from your initial consultation, we will draft a personalized treatment plan. This plan outlines the number of visits required, the specific type of implants (endosteal or basal), and whether preparatory procedures such as bone augmentation or sinus lifts are necessary.

Preparatory procedures

Some patients might need preparatory procedures to ensure their mouth can successfully accommodate dental implants. This could involve bone augmentation (if your jawbone is too thin or soft) or sinus lifts (in cases where there's insufficient bone height in the upper jaw or the sinuses are too close to the jaw).

Implant placement

Once your mouth is prepared, the next step is placing the implant, which acts as an artificial tooth root. This involves a surgical procedure where the dentist inserts the implant into the jawbone. Typically made of titanium, the implant is allowed to heal and bond with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This healing process can take several weeks or even months.

Abutment placement

Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, an abutment is added. The abutment is a small component that connects the implant to the future dental crown. The abutment placement usually involves a minor surgery to expose the implant and affix the abutment.

Crown placement

Finally, after your gums have healed around the abutment, we'll take impressions of your teeth to craft a dental crown that fits you perfectly. The crown is then attached to the abutment, completing the procedure.

One of the benefits of dental implants is that adjacent teeth don't need to be treated for it to fit. It's essential for bone and jaw health to be maintained with implants.

No matter what complications led to a tooth extraction, one critical condition for implant placement is that the gums and bone should be in excellent health. To maintain their well-being, regular visits to your dentist at Kavident are crucial.

All dental and gum problems should be addressed and remedied, and smoking should be halted for a certain period.

Depending on the state of the teeth in the oral cavity, a single implant may be placed where a tooth had to be extracted, or multiple teeth might be replaced using a bridge. This ensures a perfect smile.

Dental implants aftercare

Our dentist from Kavident Dental Clinic will provide clear and precise instructions on how to maintain our implants after their placement, tailored to each individual case. Here are some general rules:

Oral Hygiene: This is paramount. Good oral hygiene is the primary requirement for healthy teeth, whether they are natural or artificial. This includes brushing with toothpaste, using mouthwash, and flossing to prevent plaque buildup and food accumulation between teeth.

Implant Cleaning: Cleaning implants is no more difficult than cleaning natural teeth. However, it's best to do so with added care. Plaque that forms on teeth as a thin biofilm is the implant's primary enemy. Smoking is also not advisable if one has artificial teeth.

Gum Care: Keeping our gums in good health is essential. Bleeding and receding gums, which are signs of periodontitis, can affect the implants. If anything seems amiss, we should promptly consult our dentist at Kavident to get advice and take necessary actions.

Regular Check-ups: Even without any specific complaints, preventative check-ups twice a year are a must. These can be combined with professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Regular X-rays are also essential to monitor the bone level and any changes in it.

Rejection Risk: The risk of our body rejecting the implant is relatively low compared to other medical prostheses. Still, if we feel discomfort or notice inflammation, it's vital to contact our dentist promptly. If rejection is confirmed, the implant is removed, and once the gum heals, a bridge might be considered.

Diet Post-Surgery: In the days and weeks following the surgical procedure to place the implants and artificial teeth, it's advised to stick to liquids, soft, and easily chewable foods. After the recovery period, which varies in duration, we can once again enjoy eating. Proper cleaning should always follow meals.

By adhering to the guidelines and responsibly maintaining our dental implants, they can last us for decades. The investment we've made will prove worthwhile many times over, and the convenience of eating normally and looking great is simply priceless.

Dental implants price

The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants and the type of implant used. A patient's health condition is a significant factor in determining the price. During the initial examination, it's determined whether any additional treatments are required before placing the implants.

At Kavident Dental Clinic, you can expect professional service and the latest technologies in the field of implantology.