Dental implants

Dental Implants

A dental implant, sometimes simply called an implant, is a screw made of titanium metal that replaces a tooth root or is used as a fixture for larger dental prosthetics such as full dentures or bridges.

If you need one or more teeth, your dentist can place a dental implant into the jawbone through a surgical procedure. Over time, the bone heals around the implant so it becomes firmly anchored in the bone and forms support for a single dental crown or larger dental prosthetics that are screwed onto the implants.

Dental implants are suitable for single tooth gaps or larger toothless areas. They can also be used to support a fixed full bridge for toothless individuals. Implants can also be used to place attachments under dentures to improve their stability.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

• Dental implants provide a permanent solution for tooth loss
• A crown or bridge on an implant has a natural appearance
• You get a fixed solution for single crowns and bridges
• Increases stability and retention of removable prosthetics such as full dentures

When is there a need for dental implants?

Your dentist may recommend implants if:

• You are losing a tooth due to injury, decay, or periodontal disease
• You have a tooth gap where adjacent teeth are healthy and do not require preparation
• You have larger toothless areas and do not want to use removable partial dentures or full dentures
• You have dentures and want increased retention and stability

Can everyone get dental implants?

Most people with normal and healthy jawbone can get implants if their general health allows it. Your dentist will ask about your medical history, medications, underlying diseases, and allergies to determine whether it is sensible to place an implant.

X-rays are required to assess bone quantity and quality, as well as special attention to nearby nerves, blood vessels, and the sinus cavity. There is an increasing trend to take 3D scans to evaluate the area more precisely.

Sometimes bone augmentation procedures are necessary to allow the implant to be placed, either during the same surgery or as a preparatory procedure for implants.

How long do implants last?

The longevity of dental implants in the mouth depends on oral health and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Generally, implants last a very long time, possibly a lifetime. No other tooth replacement treatment offers such longevity. The prosthetic on the implant may wear out and require replacement, although the implant itself lasts longer.

Several factors can negatively affect implant longevity. The most important are:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking
• Poor quality jawbone supporting the implant
• Weakened immune system and certain underlying diseases
• Periodontal disease: Implants can be lost due to bone loss caused by gum disease, just like teeth. It is very important to treat gum disease before placing implants.

How should I prepare for the implant surgery?

Before the procedure, the dentist will carefully review your medical history and medications. If antibiotics are recommended before surgery, it is important to take them as prescribed.

Implant surgeries performed at Tannlæknaþjónustan are done under local anesthesia. Discuss with your dentist if you have had any adverse reactions to local anesthesia.

Let your dentist know if you experience significant anxiety about the procedure. Most cases do not require sedation or general anesthesia, but if needed, you will be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. We can provide mild anti-anxiety medication if necessary.

You do not need to fast before local anesthesia procedures.

It is important to be rested and eat well before the procedure. You should not eat solid food immediately after the surgery.

Carefully read and follow the aftercare instructions provided after the procedure.

How does the procedure go?

Implant surgery is a common procedure performed in the dental office under local anesthesia. The process from implant placement to the final crown or bridge being attached can take several months, as the bone needs time to heal around the implant.

• The surgical area is numbed; you won’t feel anything during the procedure.
• The gum is lifted to expose the bone.
• The jawbone is prepared with drills of appropriate width and length, and the implant screw is inserted into the bone.
• The gum is repositioned and sutured. Sometimes a healing cap is placed on the implant, protruding through the gum. You may see the healing cap in your mouth if placed that way.
• The jawbone takes 3-6 months to fully heal around the implant.
• If the healing cap is under the gum, it is uncovered with a minor surgery after 3-6 months.
• Once the implant is fully integrated and confirmed by examination and X-ray, a crown or bridge can be made and attached. A 3D scan of the implant is taken and sent to the dental lab. Finally, the prosthetic is fitted and screwed onto the implant.

What should I expect after surgery?

It is normal to experience some pain during the first few days after surgery. Mild painkillers may be needed for 1-2 days, sometimes longer depending on the case. The area may be swollen initially, and slight bleeding can occur during the first 24 hours.

If bone augmentation was done during implant placement, the risk of swelling and pain increases. Your dentist will inform you of what applies in your case.

To support healing:

• Rest for the first two days and avoid physical exertion
• Eat soft or liquid food for at least two days after surgery
• Take medications as prescribed by your dentist
• Use antibacterial mouth rinse for two weeks after surgery
• Maintain good oral hygiene but avoid brushing directly on the surgical area for the first days; brush away from the wound

Smoking and vaping are generally contraindicated with implant surgeries. You should stop smoking at least one week before and eight weeks after the procedure for optimal healing. If you smoke or vape, your dentist will assess your case individually.

Contact your dentist if:

• Persistent fresh bleeding or formation of blood clots in the area
• Severe pain not relieved by painkillers
• Signs of infection such as fever, pus, or swelling
• Increasing pain 3-5 days after surgery
• Numbness in the area
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Feeling that the implant or healing cap is loose

Outside office hours, you can contact the dentist who performed the surgery by phone or email.

Can I get a temporary solution while the implant heals?

The possibility of a temporary solution depends largely on where the tooth loss is in the mouth. Sometimes a tooth is extracted and an implant placed in the same spot immediately. In such cases, a temporary tooth is often made at the same time, usually for front teeth.

If that is not possible, a small denture with a tooth can be made soon after surgery. If you have dentures, you may need to set them aside for a few days after surgery. Your dentist will assess your case and discuss what to expect beforehand.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of implant treatment is divided into two parts: the implant and placement surgery, and the prosthetic that goes on top. You can find example prices in our price list. Examination, X-rays, and other pre-surgical tests are not included. Anesthesia, follow-up, and suture removal are included in the surgery price.

Health insurance provides subsidies for elderly and disabled persons towards implant treatment. The subsidy depends on the scope and nature of the treatment. Grants are also available for implants placed due to congenital tooth absence or accidents.

Do you think dental implants could be the solution for you?

At Tannlæknaþjónustan, we want to help improve your quality of life and appearance. If you think dental implants could be the solution for you, you are welcome to visit us. We assess each case individually and recommend what we believe is best for you. An examination does not obligate you to treatment.

We only use implants from a recognized manufacturer with the world’s most widespread implant system and a leader in the field. You are in safe hands with us.