Implant Dentistry
Dental Implants
A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once the surrounding bone has healed around it, the implant can support a crown, a bridge or a denture that stays firmly in place.
Treatment overview
An implant is a small fixture, usually made of titanium, that is placed into the jawbone in the position of a missing tooth. Bone gradually forms a close contact with its surface, which is what gives the finished restoration its stability.
Once healing is complete, an abutment connects the implant to the visible part of the restoration — a single crown, a bridge spanning several teeth, or an attachment that holds a removable denture securely.
Because the implant sits in bone rather than resting on neighbouring teeth, healthy adjacent teeth do not need to be reshaped to carry a bridge. This is often the reason patients and clinicians consider it.
Why patients consider dental implants
- A single tooth is missing and the neighbouring teeth are healthy.
- Several teeth are missing in the same area and a fixed solution is preferred.
- An existing denture moves during eating or speaking.
- A tooth is unrestorable and will need to be removed.
Consultation and suitability
Implant treatment begins with an examination and radiographic imaging so that bone volume and the position of anatomical structures can be assessed.
Gum health is reviewed first. Active gum disease is usually treated before implant placement is planned.
Medical history matters. Certain medications and health conditions affect healing, and your dentist will ask about these in detail.
Smoking influences healing around implants and will be discussed openly during your consultation.
A clinical examination is required before any treatment plan can be confirmed. Suitability depends on your individual oral health.
The treatment process
Assessment and planning
Examination, radiographic imaging and a discussion of what you would like to achieve. The findings determine whether implant treatment is appropriate and how it would be sequenced.
Preparation
If needed, treatment of gum disease, removal of an unrestorable tooth, or procedures to improve the bone site are carried out before placement.
Implant placement
The implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic. The site is then left to heal so that bone can integrate with the implant surface.
Healing period
Healing time is individual and depends on the site, bone quality and your general health. Your dentist will explain what to expect in your case.
Restoration
Once integration is confirmed, impressions or digital scans are taken and the final crown, bridge or denture attachment is fitted and adjusted.
Review
The bite is checked and cleaning around the restoration is demonstrated. Ongoing reviews help keep the surrounding tissues healthy.
Materials and techniques
- Implant fixture
- Most modern implants are made from titanium or titanium alloy, materials with a long record of use in bone.
- Restoration
- The visible part can be made from zirconia, porcelain fused to metal or other ceramic systems. The choice depends on the position of the tooth and the appearance you want.
Aftercare
- Follow the post-operative instructions you are given, including any advice on rinsing, diet and activity.
- Keep the area clean as directed — implants collect plaque in the same way natural teeth do.
- Interdental brushes or floss designed for implants are often recommended; your dentist will show you which suits your restoration.
- Attend review appointments so that the tissues around the implant can be monitored over time.
- Report any looseness, discomfort or bleeding around the implant rather than waiting for the next appointment.
Limitations and risks
Every treatment has trade-offs. These are the ones worth understanding before you decide.
- Implant treatment takes place in stages with a healing period between them, so it is not a single-visit treatment.
- Not every site has sufficient bone; additional procedures may be needed, and in some cases an alternative is more appropriate.
- As with any surgical procedure there are risks, including infection, and in rare cases the implant may not integrate.
- Gum disease and heavy smoking can affect the long-term outcome.
- Outcomes and timelines vary between patients.
Who would carry this out
Esra Namlı
Dentist
Umut Çağdaş Ateş
Dentist
Which clinician carries out your treatment is confirmed by the clinic. Names and titles are published exactly as supplied.
Frequently asked questions
The procedure itself is carried out under local anaesthetic so the area is numb. Some discomfort and swelling afterwards is normal and is usually managed with the measures your dentist recommends. Individual experience varies.
It depends on the site, the condition of the bone and whether any preparatory treatment is needed. Your dentist will outline a realistic sequence for your case after the examination.
Sometimes. Bone can reduce in volume after a tooth is lost, so imaging is used to assess whether the site can support an implant or whether preparatory treatment would be required.
Daily brushing plus cleaning between the teeth, using the tools your dentist recommends for your specific restoration. Professional cleaning appointments also help.
Related treatments
Medical disclaimer. Information on this website is provided for general informational purposes and does not replace a clinical examination or professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, duration and outcomes vary by patient.