IMPLANTOLOGY

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an artificial root that replaces that of the missing tooth. This titanium or titanium-zirconium screw is surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia.

Why do we use Straumann implants?

Although there are many different brands of implants available on the market, only a few of these have been thoroughly investigated in scientific studies.



This is why at our dental practice, we use the Straumann brand implant system, which has a clinical history spanning more than 30 years and is known among the international scientific community for its quality and reliability.

Indications for implants

If the medical examination does not reveal any contra-indications, implant insertion allows the following to be achieved:

• The attachment of crowns or bridges with various elements with the implant serving as a support.
• Stabilisation of partial or complete removable prostheses through attachment systems that resemble snap fasteners, or with the use of rods.

Advantages of a dental implant

• Restoration of mastication and aesthetics
• Preservation of the bone
  Because it is stimulated by the forces transmitted to the implant, the bone of the jaws does not resorb.
• Preservation of remaining teeth
  With a conventional bridge, the healthy teeth next to a missing tooth must be shaped with a grinder. The implant is independent and when used to fill a space, it preserves the natural surface of the neighbouring teeth.
• Improved comfort for removable prostheses
  Anchoring dentures with implants ensures better stability and more effective chewing. That means it is no longer necessary to walk around with a tube of adhesive! In addition, with an implant, the plate that covers the palate is no longer necessary. This makes it possible to fully appreciate the taste of food and eliminates the difficulties associated with phonation.

The various grafts possible

Localised augmentation

If there are small bone defects around the implant, a biomaterial supported by a collagen membrane is used to regenerate the bone.

Onlay graft

If a larger defect is diagnosed, a small block of bone is harvested, usually from the area of the wisdom teeth.

This mini graft is fixed in place with small screws.

After a healing period of about four to six months, the implant(s) can be inserted.

Sinus graft

A sinus graft is often done when replacing the upper molars and premolars. In fact, after these teeth are lost, the bone resorbs and the sinus cavity expands, leaving an insufficient height for anchoring implants.

The maxillary sinus below the gum is accessed into which a biomaterial is introduced. The implants are then placed either at the same time or after a healing period of about six months, depending on the specifics of the case and the available bone height.

How can you protect your implants in the long term?

Just like a natural tooth, a dental implant requires very rigorous oral hygiene, limited tobacco consumption and regular check-ups.

Post-operative advice

• Take your prescribed medicine
  In most cases, antibiotics will be required, as well as painkillers and mouth rinses with chlorhexidine. In the case of more extensive surgery, steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed.
• To limit swelling
  Regular application of cold compresses in 20-minute cycles, on the cheek or mouth, together with elevation of the back rest of the bed or use of additional pillows when sleeping helps to prevent oedema.
• In the case of haemorrhage
  In the case of bleeding at the surgical site, it is necessary to apply one or several gauze compresses with pressure for 30 minutes, and avoid spitting or rinsing the mouth.
• To facilitate wound healing
  Rest and reduced consumption of tobacco products help to facilitate wound healing.

In the case of a sinus graft, blowing the nose must be avoided for three to four weeks after the intervention! In addition, coughing and sneezing should be done with an open mouth. There is no need to worry if a little blood comes out of the nose a few days after the surgery. In fact, the sinuses drain through the nasal cavities.

Usually, oedema and haematomas resorb spontaneously after a few days.