Implant Treatment

Dental health is an integral part of our overall health. A healthy and complete dental structure is essential for both an aesthetically pleasing smile and full chewing function. However, tooth loss is a common problem that can affect people of all ages for various reasons. This is where implant treatment comes into play and stands out as one of the most successful and long-lasting solutions offered by dentistry today.

Implant treatment aims to replace missing teeth with screws made of biocompatible materials like titanium, providing the patient with a natural-looking tooth that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This procedure can directly impact not only your smile but also your quality of life, making a significant difference in eating, speaking, and social interaction.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about implant treatment, who’s eligible for it, how the process works, the types of materials used, post-treatment care, and costs. If you’re looking for answers to questions like, “Should I get implants?”, “Will they be painful?”, or “What are the prices?”, you’re in the right place.

What is Implant Treatment and Who Can Apply to It?

Dental implants are screw-shaped artificial roots, usually made of titanium, that are placed in the jawbone to replace a lost tooth. These structures, with porcelain or zirconium crowns, provide an aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking tooth while also functionally performing the same function as the original teeth. Implants, one of the most reliable and permanent solutions offered by modern dentistry, are successfully used for both single tooth and complete edentulism.

Basic Functioning of a Dental Implant

An implant is an artificial root placed in the jawbone. Over time, this root fuses with bone tissue to form a permanent structure. This process is called “osseointegration,” and the stronger this bond, the longer the prosthetic tooth will last.

The treatment is usually performed under local anesthesia. Patients do not feel any pain during the procedure. Recovery varies from person to person, but typically takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on the bone structure. At the end of this period, permanent prosthetic teeth are placed, completing the treatment.

In Which Situations Is Implant Treatment Recommended?

Implant treatment offers an ideal solution for many individuals with missing teeth. However, certain conditions must be met for the treatment to be effective. Here are the criteria required for candidates for implant treatment:

• Single or multiple tooth loss: Implants can be used in cases of both a single tooth loss and multiple tooth loss.

• Jawbone Adequacy: Sufficient quantity and quality of jawbone is required for the implant to be firmly anchored. Bone grafting can be used if necessary.

• Individuals with good general health: If there are chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, a specialist’s opinion should be obtained before treatment.

• Non-smokers or individuals who smoke in moderation: Smoking may negatively affect implant success.

• People who pay attention to oral hygiene: Regular oral care is essential for the longevity of the implant.

Additionally, implant treatment is recommended for individuals aged 18 and over, as jawbone development is complete at this age. Implants are not recommended for children or teenagers until they are fully grown.

How Does the Implant Process Progress?

Implant treatment in modern dentistry involves a disciplined, step-by-step process. Success is achieved not only through surgery but also through proper planning, patient follow-up, and excellent patient-doctor communication. Before beginning treatment, the patient’s general health, jawbone structure, and oral hygiene are thoroughly evaluated.

Inspection and Planning Stages

It all begins with a comprehensive dental examination. Your dentist will perform both a visual examination and a panoramic X-ray or 3D CT scan of the jawbone. This will determine the bone’s volume, density, and suitability for implants. If the bone volume is insufficient, additional procedures (such as a bone graft or sinus lift) can address this issue.

During the planning phase, also:

• How many implants will be placed,

• Which implant system will be preferred,

• Details such as the duration and cost of treatment are clarified.

After the patient gives consent, the surgical schedule is determined and the procedure is started.

Surgical Placement and Recovery Process

The surgical procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and is completely painless. The procedure time varies depending on the number of implants to be placed, but on average it takes between 30 and 90 minutes. The process proceeds as follows:

1. First Surgical Stage: The gum is opened, a suitable socket for the implant is prepared in the jawbone, and the implant is placed.

2. Waiting Period: It takes approximately 2 to 6 months for the implant to fuse with the bone (osseointegration).

3. Healing Cap Installation: After fusion, a gum former is placed on the implant.

4. Prosthesis Phase: Finally, a fixed or removable dental prosthesis is placed on the implant.

During the recovery process, care should be taken to avoid smoking, avoid hard foods, and take prescribed antibiotics/medications regularly. Regular clinical checkups will also monitor the progress.

While recovery after an implant varies from person to person, being patient and following your doctor’s instructions closely during this period directly impacts the success of the implant. If you experience any pain or discomfort during this period, you should always consult your doctor.

Implant Types and Materials Used

Implant treatment can be performed using different materials and implant types, depending on an individual’s dental structure, jawbone density, aesthetic expectations, and budget. With advancements in technology, personalized solutions are now available for each patient. This significantly increases both the success of implant treatment and patient satisfaction.

Screw Type, Zirconium and Other Types

The most commonly used type of implant is the screw-type implant. These implants are inserted into the jawbone like a screw and have high retention capacity. They integrate into the bone without damaging it and are long-lasting.

Apart from this, some of the prominent implant types are:

• Zirconium Implants: These metal-free, white implants provide superior aesthetic results. They are especially preferred in the front teeth area. They have a low allergy risk.

• Mini Implants: These have a thinner structure and are used for narrow jawbones or temporary dentures. They are preferred for supportive, rather than permanent, purposes.

• All-on-4 and All-on-6 Systems: These systems allow for the creation of a full fixed prosthesis with four or six implants for patients who have lost all their teeth. They are ideal for situations where rapid results are desired.

Each implant type has its own advantages and uses. The most appropriate system is determined based on your dentist’s recommendations and your specific needs.

Comparison of Quality, Durability and Aesthetics

Implants vary depending on the material used, manufacturing technique, and brand. A high-quality implant system will be durable for many years and offer aesthetic results that closely resemble natural teeth.

Titanium , thanks to its biocompatibility, is accepted by the body and easily fuses with bone. However, due to its metallic structure, zirconium may be preferred for individuals with certain aesthetic concerns. With its white color and light transmittance, zirconium is the material closest to natural tooth tissue.

In terms of durability, titanium implants still hold the leading position. The average lifespan of a titanium implant can exceed 20 years when well cared for. Zirconium implants are also durable, but long-term clinical data on their performance is not yet available.

Post-Implant Care and Possible Risks

The success rate of implant treatment is directly related to both the surgical procedure and post-operative care . Following treatment, the patient’s meticulous daily oral hygiene, strict adherence to the dentist’s recommendations, and regular checkups are among the most important factors determining the implant’s longevity. Without proper care, infection can develop around the implant, leading to implant failure.

Daily Care Suggestions

After implant placement is complete, regular oral hygiene is essential to maintain healthy gum tissue around the implant. Key points to consider include:

• Tooth brushing: The area around the implant should be brushed carefully with a soft-bristled brush at least twice a day.

• Use of dental floss and interdental brushes: Specially designed interdental brushes or dental floss should be used to remove plaque around the implant.

• Mouthwash: Bacterial formations should be minimized with an antibacterial mouthwash.

• Avoiding extremely hot or hard foods: These types of foods should be avoided, especially in the first months, during the implant fusion process.

• Regular check-ups: The condition of the implant should be checked at intervals recommended by your dentist (usually every 6 months).

Good care habits not only extend the life of the implant but also protect the surrounding natural teeth.

The Most Common Complications and Their Solutions

Although implant treatment has a high success rate, complications are possible. Some of the most common problems include:

• Peri-implantitis: Inflammation occurs in the tissues surrounding the implant. This condition, similar to gum disease, can lead to implant loss if left untreated.

• Implant failure (lack of osseointegration): If the implant doesn’t fuse adequately with the jawbone, it can become loose. This is usually caused by bone insufficiency, smoking, or uncontrolled diabetes.

• Pain and swelling: This is normal for the first few days, but if there is severe pain or prolonged swelling, consult a physician.

• Sinus issues: When placing implants in the upper jaw, the proximity to the sinus cavities can create problems. If necessary, a sinus lift can mitigate this risk.

• Aesthetic problems: Aesthetic problems such as color mismatch or gum recession may occur, especially in implants placed in the front teeth area.

Many of these risks can be prevented with proper planning and surgery. Most importantly, as a patient, you should follow the hygiene and checkups recommended by your doctor. This way, your implants can last for years without any problems.

Implant Treatment Prices and Specialist Selection

Implant treatment is a personalized dental treatment tailored to individual needs. Therefore, instead of a fixed price, the cost structure takes into account many different factors. Similarly, the knowledge and experience of the treating physician directly impacts both the quality and long-term success of the treatment. Therefore, implant treatment is much more than just a matter of price comparison.

2025 Implant Prices Overview

As of 2025, implant treatment prices in Türkiye can vary significantly from city to city and clinic to clinic. Average prices will vary depending on the following factors:

• Implant brand used: Domestic implants are generally more affordable, but German, Swiss or American brands may be more expensive.

• Number of implants: Whether a single tooth or a full jaw is used directly affects the cost.

• Additional procedures: Additional surgical interventions such as bone grafting, sinus lift, and extractions may increase the price.

• The doctor’s experience and the clinic’s equipment: Working with a specialist jaw surgeon or implantologist can be costly, but it is the best investment in the long run.

Conclusion

Implant treatment is one of the most successful and permanent solutions offered by modern dentistry, offering excellent results both aesthetically and functionally. It opens the door to a healthy, natural, and confident smile for individuals experiencing tooth loss. However, care and awareness are essential throughout every stage of this process.

Having the right information before starting treatment, carefully selecting your doctor, and adhering to the recommended aftercare procedures directly impact implant success. Thanks to advancements in technology, implant applications have become much more comfortable, faster, and personalized.

If you are missing teeth, have difficulty eating or speaking, or are shy in your social life for aesthetic reasons, implant treatment can be a significant turning point for you in terms of both your health and quality of life.

Remember; a healthy smile is the most important indicator of self-confidence.