Implants

• Introduction
• Implants
• Use of implants
• Contra-indications associated with implants
• Problems with implants
• The Dutch Association of Oral Implantology

Introduction

Loss of teeth or molars can have various causes. Overall, it is a very unpleasant and often traumatic experience. The position from which the tooth is lost is of great importance. There are different options for repairing a gap in a row of teeth. Unfortunately, the choice is often limited to a bridge. Other elements then need to be filed down to support the bridge. If these elements are still in good condition, filing is undesirable. In that case, a single implant offers the solution.

In cases where there are hardly any teeth or molars left to support a bridge, the aim is to produce dentures or a partial denture. The problem with these provisions is that anchor points need to be identified to which the (partial) denture can be attached. The largest issue with full dentures is that they are not anchored. The best solution is to place a few implants in the jaw to ensure that the dentures stay in the correct position and there is less bone degeneration; an unpleasant phenomenon associated with dentures.

Implants

Implants are made of titanium. Where possible, they are placed in the jawbone. This provides a foundation for the crown and bridgework, and is often used successfully for dentures. The great advantage of replacing a few teeth or molars is that the surrounding elements remain in place and do not migrate and that bone degeneration is prevented. In case of dentures, prevention of bone breakdown is even more important and the implants ensure the dentures stay firmly in place. Prevention of bone degeneration is desirable to preserve the shape and in turn appearance of the face. Implants are very well accepted by the body. The success rate with good oral hygiene is 96%, which makes this a very reliable alternative.

Use of implants

An implant can only be placed once the bone is fully developed. Apart from this restriction, there are few limitations and implants can be placed until old age. An increasing number of options are being developed in respect of placing implants. Loss of teeth and molars is not just a consequence of age. Elements can also be lost due to accidents. This is often the case with athletes, or due to trips and falls. In addition, the decision to remove a tooth or molar is made increasingly because of nerve treatment not settling down. Expansion of the coverage offered by insurance providers is also making it easier for people to opt for implants. With good oral hygiene, an implant can last many years.

Contra-indications associated with implants

• Oral hygiene

   

  • Although implants and crowns are not lost due to cavities, there is still a chance of loss. Infections can develop because of poor oral hygiene, just as with natural teeth and molars. These can eventually lead to loss of the implant.
• Smoking
  • Smoking has a negative effect on implants. The smoke contaminates the wound and impedes wound healing. Poor circulation can lead to the implant failing to attach to the bone.
• Use of medications

   

  • Patients with diabetes and heart disease are prescribed various medications that can impede optimal wound healing. However, with effective consultation between the implantologist and the attending physician, it is possible to place implants.

Problems with implants

Despite the success rate of 96%, there is always a risk that something can go wrong. There is always a possibility that an implant will fail to attach to the bone. In that case, the option is to remove it and replace it with a thicker and longer implant.

Good oral hygiene remains very important. It prevents all kinds of unpleasant infections. Patients will feel little during the treatment. An effective anaesthetic will ensure there is no pain. Once the anaesthetic has worn off, it is advisable to take painkillers. On average, 2 in 10 patients will experience swelling and bruising. This discomfort will resolve within 1 to 2 weeks.

We can submit a request to your insurance provider to find out how they can assist you and what they cover.