Dental implants
Dental implants are currently one of the most predictable methods of replacing missing teeth. They provide stability, aesthetics, and comfort similar to natural dentition. Below you will find structured information: what an implant is, when it is the best option, what the treatment looks like step by step, how long it takes, and possible contraindications.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia screw placed in the jawbone (upper or lower jaw) to replace the root of a missing tooth. A prosthetic crown is then attached to restore the shape, function, and appearance of a natural tooth.
What Does an Implant Consist Of?
- Implant screw – the part inserted into the bone (titanium/zirconia)
- Abutment – connects the implant with the crown
- Prosthetic crown – the visible part (usually ceramic or zirconia)
Why Are Implants Considered the Best Solution?
- Bone preservation – the implant stimulates the bone during chewing, helping prevent bone loss after tooth extraction
- No damage to healthy teeth – unlike a bridge, adjacent teeth do not need to be prepared
- High durability – with proper hygiene and follow-up visits, implants can function for many years
- Comfort and function – bite force similar to a natural tooth
- Aesthetics – modern crowns are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth
When Is an Implant Recommended?
- Single missing tooth – restores the gap without affecting adjacent teeth
- Multiple missing teeth – individual implants or implant-supported bridges
- Full arch restoration – implants can support overdentures or fixed solutions such as all-on-4
Contraindications to Implant Placement
Absolute Contraindications
- Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c > 7%)
- Radiotherapy to the jaws within the last 2–3 years
- Intravenous bisphosphonate therapy
- Severe immune disorders
- Pregnancy
Relative Contraindications
- Controlled diabetes
- Smoking (increased risk of complications)
- Osteoporosis treated with oral bisphosphonates
- Blood clotting disorders
- Insufficient bone volume (often manageable with bone augmentation)
Step-by-Step Implant Treatment
Stage 1: Diagnostics
Medical history, clinical examination, CBCT scan, and digital treatment planning. This stage ensures safety and predictability.
Stage 2: Preparation (if necessary)
Gum treatment, extraction of non-restorable teeth, and sometimes bone augmentation.
Stage 3: Implant Placement
Performed under local anaesthesia and usually takes 30–60 minutes. Mild swelling (1–3 days), manageable discomfort, and minor bruising may occur.
Stage 4: Osseointegration
The implant integrates with the bone. Typically:
- 2–3 months in the lower jaw
- 4–6 months in the upper jaw
Stage 5: Implant Uncovering
A short procedure (10–15 minutes) to place the healing abutment.
Stage 6: Prosthetic Phase
Impression taking, crown fabrication in a dental laboratory, and final placement.
Estimated treatment time:
3–6 months from implant placement to crown.
With bone augmentation: 6–12 months.
Does Implant Surgery Hurt?
- During the procedure: Completely painless under local anaesthesia; sedation may be available.
- After the procedure: Discomfort is usually most noticeable during the first 1–3 days and gradually decreases. Most patients report no significant symptoms after one week.
How Long Do Implants Last?
With proper hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can function for many years. The prosthetic crown typically lasts around 10–15 years and can be replaced without removing the implant.
Possible Complications
Early (rare)
- Lack of osseointegration (more common in smokers)
- Infection
- Nerve-related complications (very rare with proper CBCT planning)
Late
- Peri-implantitis – inflammation around the implant (often related to hygiene and smoking)
- Screw loosening
- Implant fracture (very rare)
Bone Augmentation – When Is It Needed?
If there is insufficient bone volume, augmentation procedures may be required:
- GBR (Guided Bone Regeneration) – bone regeneration using graft material (4–6 months before implant placement)
- Sinus lift – elevation of the maxillary sinus floor
- Split crest – widening a narrow ridge
How Much Does an Implant Cost?
The total cost (implant + crown) typically ranges between 4,000–7,000 PLN.
Approximate breakdown:
- Implant: 1,500–3,000 PLN
- Abutment: 500–800 PLN
- Crown: 1,500–2,500 PLN
Dental implants are not covered by public health insurance (NFZ).
Aftercare
Home Care
- Brush twice daily
- Clean interdental spaces daily (floss/interdental brushes)
- Use a water flosser if recommended
Follow-Up
- Professional check-up and hygiene every 6 months
- Control X-ray every 1–2 years
Avoid
- Smoking
- Poor oral hygiene
- Overloading the implant (e.g., bruxism – consider a night guard)
Immediate Implants
In selected cases, an implant can be placed immediately after tooth extraction. This may shorten treatment by several months but requires specific conditions: no active infection, sufficient bone volume, and good primary stability.
Summary
Dental implants are a durable and comfortable method of replacing missing teeth. They are particularly beneficial when you want to preserve bone, avoid grinding healthy teeth, and choose a solution that closely mimics nature. Successful treatment depends on proper diagnostics (CBCT), a well-structured treatment plan, and good oral hygiene with regular follow-ups.
This article is for informational purposes only. Treatment decisions should always be made after consultation with a dentist or implant surgeon.
