Dental implants - Norsk Tannvern

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dental impressions and models of the jaws. 2. The implant is surgically inserted and integrates naturally with the bone
ENGELSK TANNIMPLANTATER

Dental implants Implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth. This brochure provides information about dental implants What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an artificial root inserted in the jawbone. The dentist can then attach crowns or bridges to this type of “root” in order to replace missing teeth. Implants are screw-shaped. They are made of titanium, are 3-5 mm thick and 8-16 mm long. It normally takes 3-6 months for an implant to bond firmly enough with the bone before an artificial tooth can be attached. In some cases, it may be possible to do this earlier. The dental replacement typically consists of 3 parts: the screw-shaped implant in the bone, an abutment extending through the gum, and the crown that is placed on top. Depending on how many teeth need replacing, the procedure requires 4-8 dental appointments, including the initial dental examination.

Why have a dental implant?

Implants are used to replace teeth lost as a result of injury, dental decay, gum disease or missing teeth that failed to develop (agenesis). If you have many teeth missing, the dentist can place multiple implants as a base for bridges or removable dentures. The procedures at the dentist are not time-consuming, but there will usually be long waiting periods to give the implant and bone time to integrate. The waiting periods are very variable from one patient to the next.

The X-ray image and the photo above are of the same patient, with an image of the implant superimposed.

How the procedure is done:

1. A full examination with X-rays imaging and possibly dental impressions and models of the jaws. 2. The implant is surgically inserted and integrates naturally with the bone over the course of 3-6 Who can have a dental implant? months. Dental implantation is a well-established procedure 3. The dentist may decide to conceal the implant under suitable for a great many people. The vast majority the gum for the time it takes to integrate with the of people can have implants, but in a few cases there bone. If so, you will need a minor surgical procedure may not be enough bone in the jaw, or they may have to attach an abutment extending through the gum. a medical condition or be taking medicines that limit 4. Once the implant is firmly attached, the dentist the options. Tobacco smokers are at increased risk that makes a dental impression and a dental technician their implants will loosen and have to be removed. Your makes the crown, bridge or denture. dentist will carry out a full dental examination and tell 5. The dentist places the final components inside the you if you can have an implant or if other options would mouth. be better for you. 6. Post-implant checkups by your dentist or dental hygienist.

What does a dental implant cost?

ENGELSK TANNIMPLANTATER

The cost obviously varies depending on how many teeth need replacing, or the type of procedure you opt for. You are entitled to receive an itemized price quotation from your dentist before you go ahead with treatment. Replacing a single tooth with an implant is more expensive than replacing it with a traditional fixed bridge, but you avoid having your healthy adjacent teeth filed down. In some cases, you may be entitled to subsidized implant dentistry under the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme. The dentist will be able to give you information about the rules and your entitlements.

What do you need to do?

• Give the dentist all the health information needed so the surgical procedure can be done safely, and so the dentist can determine if you are entitled to subsidized treatment. • Follow the dentist’s instructions before and after the surgery to get the best possible results from the procedure. • Avoid tobacco use in the weeks up to and after placement of the implant. • Proper cleaning of implant crowns is crucial for a lasting result.

A three-unit bridge can be attached to two implants.

The same patient as on the previous page, but with the bridge in place.

Implant care and maintenance

• An implant is a financial investment in your health, but requires proper maintenance for it to be longlasting. • Bacterial plaque left undisturbed on the gums around the implant can cause inflammation of the gum and, in the worst case, cause the implant to loosen. • Implants require the same careful cleaning as natural teeth. The plaque along the gumline and on the crowns must be removed daily in the morning and before bedtime. In addition to a normal toothbrush, you should use a “bottle brush” and/or dental floss. • If you are unsure if you can maintain this high standard of dental hygiene and care, then dental implants may not be the right option for you. • Ask your dentist and dental hygienist for instruction in proper oral hygiene and for tips on daily dental care and maintenance. • The implants should be checked regularly by a dentist/dental hygienist in the same way as for natural teeth.

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