The Journey of Implant Treatment

Specialist Dentist Serap Özdamar Explains

With regular dental check-ups and correct oral care, it is possible to keep our teeth healthy for many years. From time to time, however, teeth can be lost because of trauma, neglect or certain systemic diseases. In such cases, the most effective solution, both functionally and aesthetically, is dental implant treatment.

What Is a Dental Implant?

Implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. With fixed or removable prostheses placed on top of them, the appearance and function of natural teeth are restored. Thanks to modern implant technology, the treatment process is both comfortable and has a high success rate.

Who Can Have Dental Implants?

Implant treatment can be performed on any individual who is in good general health and has a suitable jawbone structure. However, before starting treatment, you must give your dentist

• The medications you take,

• The operations you have had,

• Any existing systemic conditions (for example diabetes or high blood pressure),

and complete information about them. This information is vital for planning your treatment.

How Is Implant Treatment Performed?

1. Examination and imaging: First, a detailed oral examination is carried out. If necessary, the bone structure is assessed with a panoramic X-ray and dental tomography.

2. Planning: The number and position of the implants and the type of prosthesis to be placed on them are planned individually.

3. Surgical placement: Under local anaesthesia, the implants are placed in the jawbone in an operation that is usually painless and short.

4. Healing process: After the bone-implant fusion process, which takes 2 to 3 months on average, the prosthetic stage begins.

✅ Note: Having the implant procedure performed by a dentist who specialises in oral and maxillofacial surgery significantly increases the success of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is implant treatment painful?

No. Implant placement is performed under local anaesthesia. Mild pain may occur after the procedure; this can usually be easily controlled with simple painkillers. In addition, antibiotics are mandatory so that your healing proceeds healthily. Please take the medication recommended by your doctor completely.

Can an implant be used for life?

With correct oral care and regular check-ups, implants can last as long as natural teeth. However, expressions such as "lifetime guarantee" are misleading. Remember: we age, and therefore changes may occur over time in your jawbone and gums. This can also affect your implants. It is very important to take good care of them and not to neglect your annual check-ups.

What are implant prices in Istanbul?

Implant prices vary according to the material used, the implant brand and any additional treatment needs. Every January, the Turkish Dental Association (TDB) publishes the current "Oral and Dental Health Treatment Fee Schedule". You can find this schedule at tdb.org.tr. Be careful! Slogans such as "discounted implants" or "treatment in 3 days" are generally misleading. Staying away from places that market themselves with such expressions will be the right choice for your health in the long term.

Does the implant brand matter?

The most important element in your treatment is your doctor's knowledge and experience. In procedures performed by a specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, the implant brand and design most suitable for you are determined. There are many implant brands on the market. Be sure to find out the brand of the implant that is placed and keep this information for life. This information is extremely important if any intervention is needed in the future.

How should you choose your doctor?

Implant treatment is a process that requires detailed knowledge, surgical experience and technological equipment. For this reason, you should choose doctors who are

• Specialists in their field,

• Trained and experienced in oral and maxillofacial surgery,

• Transparent in the information they provide,

• Backed by a strong clinical infrastructure.

I, Dr. Serap Özdamar, and my team are by your side for your healthy smile

At our clinic in Istanbul, we provide safe and modern implant treatments planned individually for you. We look forward to giving you a healthy smile too.

"A healthy smile adds health and self-confidence to your life."

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