One of the main focuses of our practice is in the field of dental implantology . No other form of denture comes as close to the original state as the implant.
The small "post" made of body-neutral pure titanium replaces the tooth root and grows firmly into the jawbone. Dental crowns , bridges or even prostheses can be fixed on this foundation . After the restoration, you have the comfort of a firmly anchored tooth again. You don't feel any restrictions when laughing, speaking or chewing.
From single tooth to edentulous jaw we canOffer individual implant solutions that bring you comfort and aesthetics in the long term.
And so you can be sure: When it comes to implantology, we work closely with one of the world's leading implant manufacturers .
Dental implants
Single tooth gap
The loss of a single tooth can affect anyone. Often even within seconds: done sport, tooth gone. It's terrifying, but no longer a drama today.
Implants solve the problem in a natural and "invisible" way. Dental implants are small, highly developed and extremely powerful titanium screws that are placed in the jaw instead of natural tooth roots and grow firmly into the bone. A temporary restoration conceals the gap until the implant has healed.
Your new tooth crown is then attached to it "invisibly" and permanently stable . It sits firmly in the jaw with its new root and cannot be distinguished from the natural neighboring teeth.
Implants solve the problem in a natural and "invisible" way. Dental implants are small, highly developed and extremely powerful titanium screws that are placed in the jaw instead of natural tooth roots and grow firmly into the bone. A temporary restoration conceals the gap until the implant has healed.
Your new tooth crown is then attached to it "invisibly" and permanently stable . It sits firmly in the jaw with its new root and cannot be distinguished from the natural neighboring teeth.
Large tooth gap
If the smile suddenly gets old, several teeth are missing or older dentures keep causing problems, you can use implants to make the rows of teeth look intact.
Single tooth implants are an elegant solution when several teeth are missing in a row: Each one is replaced individually and the original situation is exactly restored. If three or more teeth are missing next to each other, you can also opt for an implant-supported bridge . Here, the new tooth crowns are connected to one another and placed firmly on two or more implants.
A temporary solution closes the gaps during the healing phase.
Once this has been completed, the final tooth crowns or the bridge are permanently attached to the implants .
Single tooth implants are an elegant solution when several teeth are missing in a row: Each one is replaced individually and the original situation is exactly restored. If three or more teeth are missing next to each other, you can also opt for an implant-supported bridge . Here, the new tooth crowns are connected to one another and placed firmly on two or more implants.
A temporary solution closes the gaps during the healing phase.
Once this has been completed, the final tooth crowns or the bridge are permanently attached to the implants .
Toothless jaw
If you are missing almost all or even all of the teeth in your lower jaw , you can still have a good laugh with implants. Because two to four implants are enough to give a full denture a firm hold. It is fastened with special holding systems that consist of two elements. One is permanently placed on the implants and the counterpart is incorporated into the prosthesis .
When inserting, the two elements connect, similar to a push button: your prosthesis is firmly in place. You can easily remove them at any time for cleaning .
A bridge can also be placed on at least six implantsbe permanently anchored to your jaw. The dentures are then so tight that the supporting pink denture plastic can be dispensed with. In the upper jaw, the palate remains free of prosthetic material in any case .
So you can enjoy complete security in every situation, because nothing can come loose unexpectedly. With your implant-borne third, you can eat, talk, and laugh as if they were your second.
When inserting, the two elements connect, similar to a push button: your prosthesis is firmly in place. You can easily remove them at any time for cleaning .
A bridge can also be placed on at least six implantsbe permanently anchored to your jaw. The dentures are then so tight that the supporting pink denture plastic can be dispensed with. In the upper jaw, the palate remains free of prosthetic material in any case .
So you can enjoy complete security in every situation, because nothing can come loose unexpectedly. With your implant-borne third, you can eat, talk, and laugh as if they were your second.
Questions about dental implants
Allergy
Is there a possibility of an allergy to implants?
Implants have been around for over forty years. In this long time there has been no known intolerance to titanium implants . The material has no allergenic components and is completely neutral in the body.
Age
Is there a minimum age for implants?
The bone growth should be completed at the time of implantation. This can be assumed on average at the age of 18. Girls usually mature a little earlier, boys often a little later. If in doubt, this can easily be determined using an x-ray of the wrist.
Is there anything that speaks against implantation at an advanced age?
In principle, it is never too late to gain a new quality of life with implants. The treatment is so low-risk that you can still have implants inserted at the age of 70, 80 or even 90. An age limit up does not exist. As long as you have another routine treatment at the dentist and are in good health, you can get implants.
Outpatient procedure
Is an implantation really carried out on an outpatient basis?
Yes, the implants are inserted into the jawbone gently and safely under local anesthesia . Multiple implants toocan usually easily be set in a single session.
Work
When can I go back to work?
After consultation, you can usually resume your everyday life and go to work the next day.
(See also keyword "Sport" under S)
Treatment process
What is the overall process of an implantation?
Advice, preliminary examination and planning
In a detailed consultation you will find out the treatment process required for your personal situation. You will then receive a treatment and cost plan , from which you can see the exact costs for your individual implant treatment. Submit this to your health insurance company, which will inform you about your co- payment and the reimbursement options.
After the question of costs has been clarified and the decision for one or more implants has been made, any necessary pre-treatment will be carried outYour natural teeth or gums. In general, implantological solutions are always carried out from the point of view of renovating the entire dentition. Detailed diagnostics and treatment planning are necessary for an implantation . The examination includes the assessment of the entire oral cavity, mucous membrane, teeth and jawbones. In order to avoid risks, your general medical situation is also recorded in the anamnesis .
Then the implantation will be precisely planned on the basis of X-rays and plaster models of your jaw. To be able to accurately assess the bones and the location of other important structures is sometimes oneComputed tomography (CT) required. After these preparations, you can get your implants at the next appointment. So that you feel completely comfortable during the implantation, it is best to wear comfortable clothing. You can also have a bite to eat up to an hour before the procedure. It is best to stick to the recommendations from your consultation.
Insertion of the implants
The procedure usually takes no longer than 20 minutes per implant . The procedure for implantation is so gentle and safe that you can get all the implants you need on an outpatient basisand can usually be used in a single treatment. The gums are opened at precisely defined places. Then a small, precisely fitting " implant bed " is created through a gentle drilling in the bone and the screws are inserted into it.
As a rule, the implants must first heal into the bone for a few weeks or months without stress. Therefore, the gums over the implant are sutured again and a temporary solutionused. A little later you can leave the treatment room with a smile. Since you shouldn't drive yourself after the anesthetic, it is best to have someone pick you up or take a taxi home. You should refrain from eating and drinking until the anesthesia has subsided.
Wound healing
The gums usually heal very quickly and largely free of symptoms . A check- up is carried out after two to three days and the stitches can be removed about ten days later.
Bone healing
In the bone healing phase, bone cells attach themselves closely to the implants and gradually enclose them. In this way, the implants become an integral part of your jaw. This painless process takes four to six months in the upper jaw . In the lower jaw, the bone is somewhat harder, so that implants have a firmer hold from the outset ( primary stability ) and you can assume two to four months here.
Until then, you will get a temporary solutionor you can continue to wear your existing dentures after a makeover. With a little caution, you can eat normally again immediately. In addition, temporary restorations can now be of such high quality that they can hardly be distinguished from natural teeth during this transition period.
Implant exposure
When the healing process is complete, the gums are opened again exactly above the implants and so-called gum formers are inserted. These shape the gums for later tooth structure, so that the gums can sit just as close to your new tooth crowns as they do to natural teeth. In the case of prostheses, the gums are shaped for the holding elements of the prosthesis. Then an impression is madeYour jaw is taken, which serves as the basis for the production of the crowns, the bridge or the prosthesis with its holding elements. Your temporary will then be reinserted. Because you never leave the treatment room without teeth.
Insertion of the crowns, bridge or prosthesis
After about 14 days , the gingival formers can be removed and your final crowns, bridge or prosthesis can be inserted. The crowns or the bridge are invisibly screwed onto the implants so that nobody notices the difference to your natural teeth. With implant-supported prosthesesholding elements are attached to the implants and their counterparts are incorporated into the prosthesis. When it is inserted, these two elements combine and your prosthesis fits perfectly. From now on you have complete security and a completely natural mouthfeel.
Exception: immediate loading
Under certain conditions, for example if your bone situation is optimal, so-called immediate loading of the implant may also be possible. This means that a very high quality temporary restoration is immediately attached to the freshly inserted implant. You will receive your implant and have a fixed, natural-looking tooth again on the same day.
Duration of treatment How many doctor's appointments are required for my new tooth roots?
This depends on the scope and type of your treatment concept. An appointment is usually sufficient for the consultation, in which your questions will also be answered. The preliminary examinations and planning will take place at your next appointment. As a rule, your new " tooth roots " can then be inserted into the jawbone a short time later in a treatment. For this purpose, a small incision is usually made in the gums at the appropriate points, which is sutured again over the implant. A day or two after the procedure, the wound will be checked as a precaution . After about ten days, the stitches are pulled. Now you can wait for the regeneration of the bone, the so-called " healing phase ", stress-free and usually without further medical appointments .
When and how do the teeth get onto the implant?
With a normal healing process, the implants in the upper jaw have grown firmly into the bone after about six months and in the lower jaw after about three months and are a natural part of your jaw. Your new dental crowns can now be securely attached to it. To do this, the implant "heads" are exposed again and small caps are temporarily screwed into them so that the gums can properly form. An imprint is made of this situationtaken. The dental technician uses this impression as the basis for making your dentures. After a precise color match and try-on , the dentures are securely attached to the implants.
(See also keyword "Immediate loading" under S)
Am I without teeth during the healing phase?
No. If you previously had removable dentures, there is usually the possibility that you can continue to wear them after a small adjustment. However, if you did not have a removable denture before, the gap can always be closed with a temporary . Under certain conditions, it can sometimes even be attached to the implants immediately. For this so-calledLong-term temporary restorations are very high-quality solutions that hardly differ from your final tooth crowns and your natural teeth.
Counseling
interview How do I prepare for the counseling interview?
If you have already obtained general information before the consultation, you will certainly be better able to follow the explanations that are specific to your situation. In any case, you can use the conversation to have all your questions answered. Perhaps you would like to make a small list in advance so that you do not forget anything. Please remember that there may be general illnesses or medication to be taken regularlycan also be important topics for your consultation.
Anesthesia
Is it really not necessary to have general anesthesia for the implantation?
No. The sensation of pain in the jaw can be completely switched off with a local anesthetic . When the implant bed is drilled into the bone and the implant is inserted, you will feel a vibration and a slight feeling of pressure, but no pain. Most patients perceive the procedure as similar to caries treatment, which is also carried out under local anesthesia. If you still prefer to "sleep through" the treatment, please ask.
Diabetes
Can I also get an implant as a diabetic?
Yes. However, they should be optimally adjusted in terms of medication. Badly controlled or untreated diabetes can impair the healing process due to metabolic factors . In case of doubt, your family doctor should therefore be involved.
Diseases
Are there any diseases that rule out an implantation?
Not really, but if you suffer from a serious general illness such as cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis , severe kidney damage , an increased tendency to bleed or a weakened immune systemyou should definitely inform us about it. We will advise you on the possibilities and together you can then make a decision regarding your specific health profile.
Renewal or extension of dentures
Can implant-borne dentures be renewed or, if additional teeth are lost, expanded?
Yes, the dentures can be renewed or changed at any time. A single tooth implant can easily be converted into a pillar for a bridge or prosthesis even after many years .
I already have a normal full denture. Do I need a new one to attach the implant?
If the existing prosthesis ensures optimal loading of the implants and good chewing function, it is entirely possible to rework it for implant fixation. Please ask, we will recommend the best solution.
What happens if your own tooth, which is integrated into the denture as a pillar, is lost?
If a tooth has to be removed, for example due to a root inflammation, it can usually be replaced with another implant without any problems. The support and possibly also the prosthesis are then modified accordingly.
Eating
Can I bite off and eat normally with implant-supported dentures?
Regardless of whether you have an implant-supported crown, bridge or prosthesis: You can use it to eat, bite off, talk and laugh like you did with your "second teeth" in the past. The dentures rests so firmly on your implants that you can feel completely safe.
Airport
control Does the implant beep, for example, during the control at the airport?
No, do not worry. Implants are not magnetic and, moreover, much too small to trigger a reaction from the detectors. And should the beeper still react to your implants, you have your implant pass with which you can clarify the situation quickly and discreetly.
Foreign body sensation
Do implant-borne teeth feel like my own or do I have a foreign body sensation?
Implant-supported teeth give you a completely natural mouthfeel when you talk, eat and laugh . You don't feel any difference.
Pacemaker
Do implants affect my pacemaker?
No. Implants have no electromagnetic effect . They therefore do not pose a threat to the functioning of your pacemaker.
Durability
How long does an implant last?
After the healing phase there is a professionally inserted quality implantmore resistant to some influences than the natural tooth root. A titanium implant with optimal prosthetic load does not break. And it can't get tooth decay. With consistent oral hygiene, you also keep the gums and the implant bed healthy. Implants can therefore last your life .
Implant
material What material are implants made of?
Implants are made of medical grade titanium . The material has proven itself so well that 99% of all dental implant systems are now made from this material. It is highly stable and is very well accepted by the body. In addition, titanium grows firmly together with the bone tissue. It has proven these positive properties for decades not only in dental implantology , but also in many other medical areas, for example in joint prosthetics. The silvery-gray color of titanium is also not a disadvantage, as implants - like natural tooth roots - sit completely in the jawbone and are invisible.
For several years there have also been white ceramic implants . However, the first generations of alumina ceramics did not have sufficient material strength to compete with titanium. Today's ceramic implants consist of highly stable zirconium oxide ceramics and are currently in the testing phase. However, titanium is still the material of choice as an implant material.
Ceramic
Which dental material is suitable for the tooth crowns?
Most crowns and bridges are made of metals or metal alloys and veneered with ceramic in the color of the tooth. The highly aesthetic alternative is all-ceramics . Zirconium oxide ceramicDue to its high strength, it is particularly suitable for implant-supported dentures. It is suitable for individual tooth crowns, but also for larger bridges and reflects the incident light just like the natural tooth substance. This dental prosthesis can therefore hardly be distinguished from natural teeth.
Bone augmentation
When can bone augmentation be necessary?
If teeth and thus the natural chewing load in the jaw are missing for a long time, the bone gradually recedes. It is similar to a muscle that atrophies when it is no longer stressed. Certain germs can also destroy the bones. One speaks of periodontal disease , better known as periodontal disease- an inflammatory periodontal disease. If the bone substance is so weakened or thin that an implant can no longer be held, bone grafting is advisable. The bone tissue is restored as gently as possible with the body's own or bone-replacing material. Often a mixture of both is used. The building material is deposited directly on the bones and gradually converted into resilient bone substance by the body. In this way, the bone can be widened or increased. In the back of the upper jaw, the bone is usually lifted using a so-called sinus liftelevated. This prevents part of the implant from protruding into the maxillary sinus. It is often possible to build the bone directly during the implantation. However, a separate outpatient procedure may be required beforehand.
Costs
What costs do I have to expect?
The costs can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment and the number of implants. The guideline value for an implant-supported crown including all medical and dental services is around 2,000 euros . An implant-supported bridge (for three missing teeth) starts at around 4,000 euros and a full denture at 6,000 euros. The treatment and cost plan that you will receive before the start of treatment gives you precise information about the individual cost situation .
Reimbursement
pays me the health insurance on that?
Yes. Since January 2005, the statutory health insurances in Germany have also been paying a fixed allowance for implant-borne dentures . This fixed subsidy is based on the so-called standard supply . This is a crown, bridge or prosthesis that represents the minimum standard for a certain initial finding .
The following fixed grants result as an example :
- If you have a missing tooth, you will get around 270 euros .
- If four front teeth are missing next to each other, you will get around 380 euros .
- If you have five missing teeth or a free-end situation, you will receive around 270 euros .
- With a toothless lower jaw you get around 270 euros , with a toothless upper jaw around 250 euros .
If you can prove that you have had regular dental check-ups in the last five years before starting treatment, the fixed allowance increases by 20 percent . If proof of pension provision has been made in the last ten calendar years, the fixed allowance increases by a total of 30 percent.
Taking medication
Are there any drug interactions?
This is possible with certain medications. Cortisone , for example, can alter the body's metabolic and immune system, which can lead to problems with healing. Anticoagulant drugs can cause profuse bleeding during implantation. If you have to take medication regularly, you should therefore make this an issue in the consultation .
At night
Do I have to take out an implant-supported prosthesis at night?
A conventional prosthesis should be removed at night because it can come off during sleep and possibly block the throat or airway. An implant-supported prosthesis is usually so tight that it can be worn safely at night. If you want, you can wear your prosthesis around the clock.
Periodontitis / Periodontosis
(See also keyword "Bone Structure" under K)
Risks
Is the implantation associated with risks?
An implantation is a small operation. Complications such as injuries to nerves and blood vessels are generally possible when inserting the implants. However, with today's diagnostic and planning options, this can largely be ruled out. There are usually no greater risks with an implantation overall than with a wisdom tooth extraction.
Also a sudden rejection reactiona fully healed implant is very unlikely. In rare cases, however, it can happen that the bone does not enclose the implant tightly enough. It would then not be sufficiently resilient and would very likely have to be removed again under local anesthesia. Usually, however, a new implant can be placed afterwards, often in the same session - if you wish.
What if an implant catches fire?
Detected early, inflammations, which are usually caused by bacteria, can usually be treated successfully. If you regularly attend your follow -up and prophylaxis appointments and also brush your teeth regularly at home, you should be on the safe side.
Are implants also useful for smokers?
The long-term success of implants can be jeopardized by smoking. Please address your smoking habits in the consultation, then your individual risk can be better assessed.
Pain
Will I be in pain after the procedure?
The gums are likely to be tender for the first few days, but will no longer bleed. The cheek may temporarily swell and feel uncomfortable. Most patients do not even need a pain pill the next day and can go back to their normal everyday life.
Beautiful teeth
I only need individual implants, but would like to have lighter or more beautiful teeth overall. Is that possible?
Dark teeth can often be whitened with bleaching . Unsightly tooth fronts can be made with plastic or fine ceramic shells, so-called veneers, be blinded. The crowns for the implants are then made lighter from the start or according to the new tooth shape. Talk to us about it: There is a solution for almost every problem.
Sinus lift
(see also keyword "bone structure" under K)
Immediate loading
What exactly is meant by "immediate loading" and is it also an option for me?
The usual route to implant-supported teeth provides for an unloaded healing phase after the implant has been inserted . With this approach, the gap is temporarily closed with a classic provisional solutionclosed, which is attached to the neighboring teeth, for example. In the so-called immediate loading, new implant systems and methods are used which, under certain conditions, allow the dentures or the temporary to be attached to the implants immediately. Patients get their implants and have fixed, natural-looking teeth again the same day. Whether immediate loading is also an option for you depends, for example, on the condition of the jawbone and the position of the implants . Just talk to us about these options.
(See also "duration of treatment" under B)
Immediate implant placement
Can implants be used immediately after removing teeth?
Yes, that is often possible today. The implant is placed in the still fresh wound immediately after a tooth has been removed. This is called immediate implantation (not to be confused with immediate loading of implants).
Sport
And what about sport after the implantation?
Movement is generally not a problem after implantation. However, when it comes to activities involving vigorous physical exertion , you should discuss this with us beforehand. In order not to impair wound healing, a rest period of a few days may be recommended .
Dental care
How do I care for my implant-borne teeth?
Implant-borne teeth don't just look like natural teeth. You can also brush them just as easily with a toothbrush - even an electric one - and toothpaste. The spaces between the teeth and the transitions to the gums are particularly important with implants . Germs quickly settle here, which can attack the gums and, over time, the jawbone around the implant. However, this can be prevented with dental floss or small interdental brushes . On request, our prophylaxis team will show you how to use the utensils correctly and will take care of professional teeth cleaning at regular intervals - about every three months. Even stubborn deposits are completely removed and your teeth shine again with their old freshness.
Is there a possibility of an allergy to implants?
Implants have been around for over forty years. In this long time there has been no known intolerance to titanium implants . The material has no allergenic components and is completely neutral in the body.
Age
Is there a minimum age for implants?
The bone growth should be completed at the time of implantation. This can be assumed on average at the age of 18. Girls usually mature a little earlier, boys often a little later. If in doubt, this can easily be determined using an x-ray of the wrist.
Is there anything that speaks against implantation at an advanced age?
In principle, it is never too late to gain a new quality of life with implants. The treatment is so low-risk that you can still have implants inserted at the age of 70, 80 or even 90. An age limit up does not exist. As long as you have another routine treatment at the dentist and are in good health, you can get implants.
Outpatient procedure
Is an implantation really carried out on an outpatient basis?
Yes, the implants are inserted into the jawbone gently and safely under local anesthesia . Multiple implants toocan usually easily be set in a single session.
Work
When can I go back to work?
After consultation, you can usually resume your everyday life and go to work the next day.
(See also keyword "Sport" under S)
Treatment process
What is the overall process of an implantation?
Advice, preliminary examination and planning
In a detailed consultation you will find out the treatment process required for your personal situation. You will then receive a treatment and cost plan , from which you can see the exact costs for your individual implant treatment. Submit this to your health insurance company, which will inform you about your co- payment and the reimbursement options.
After the question of costs has been clarified and the decision for one or more implants has been made, any necessary pre-treatment will be carried outYour natural teeth or gums. In general, implantological solutions are always carried out from the point of view of renovating the entire dentition. Detailed diagnostics and treatment planning are necessary for an implantation . The examination includes the assessment of the entire oral cavity, mucous membrane, teeth and jawbones. In order to avoid risks, your general medical situation is also recorded in the anamnesis .
Then the implantation will be precisely planned on the basis of X-rays and plaster models of your jaw. To be able to accurately assess the bones and the location of other important structures is sometimes oneComputed tomography (CT) required. After these preparations, you can get your implants at the next appointment. So that you feel completely comfortable during the implantation, it is best to wear comfortable clothing. You can also have a bite to eat up to an hour before the procedure. It is best to stick to the recommendations from your consultation.
Insertion of the implants
The procedure usually takes no longer than 20 minutes per implant . The procedure for implantation is so gentle and safe that you can get all the implants you need on an outpatient basisand can usually be used in a single treatment. The gums are opened at precisely defined places. Then a small, precisely fitting " implant bed " is created through a gentle drilling in the bone and the screws are inserted into it.
As a rule, the implants must first heal into the bone for a few weeks or months without stress. Therefore, the gums over the implant are sutured again and a temporary solutionused. A little later you can leave the treatment room with a smile. Since you shouldn't drive yourself after the anesthetic, it is best to have someone pick you up or take a taxi home. You should refrain from eating and drinking until the anesthesia has subsided.
Wound healing
The gums usually heal very quickly and largely free of symptoms . A check- up is carried out after two to three days and the stitches can be removed about ten days later.
Bone healing
In the bone healing phase, bone cells attach themselves closely to the implants and gradually enclose them. In this way, the implants become an integral part of your jaw. This painless process takes four to six months in the upper jaw . In the lower jaw, the bone is somewhat harder, so that implants have a firmer hold from the outset ( primary stability ) and you can assume two to four months here.
Until then, you will get a temporary solutionor you can continue to wear your existing dentures after a makeover. With a little caution, you can eat normally again immediately. In addition, temporary restorations can now be of such high quality that they can hardly be distinguished from natural teeth during this transition period.
Implant exposure
When the healing process is complete, the gums are opened again exactly above the implants and so-called gum formers are inserted. These shape the gums for later tooth structure, so that the gums can sit just as close to your new tooth crowns as they do to natural teeth. In the case of prostheses, the gums are shaped for the holding elements of the prosthesis. Then an impression is madeYour jaw is taken, which serves as the basis for the production of the crowns, the bridge or the prosthesis with its holding elements. Your temporary will then be reinserted. Because you never leave the treatment room without teeth.
Insertion of the crowns, bridge or prosthesis
After about 14 days , the gingival formers can be removed and your final crowns, bridge or prosthesis can be inserted. The crowns or the bridge are invisibly screwed onto the implants so that nobody notices the difference to your natural teeth. With implant-supported prosthesesholding elements are attached to the implants and their counterparts are incorporated into the prosthesis. When it is inserted, these two elements combine and your prosthesis fits perfectly. From now on you have complete security and a completely natural mouthfeel.
Exception: immediate loading
Under certain conditions, for example if your bone situation is optimal, so-called immediate loading of the implant may also be possible. This means that a very high quality temporary restoration is immediately attached to the freshly inserted implant. You will receive your implant and have a fixed, natural-looking tooth again on the same day.
Duration of treatment How many doctor's appointments are required for my new tooth roots?
This depends on the scope and type of your treatment concept. An appointment is usually sufficient for the consultation, in which your questions will also be answered. The preliminary examinations and planning will take place at your next appointment. As a rule, your new " tooth roots " can then be inserted into the jawbone a short time later in a treatment. For this purpose, a small incision is usually made in the gums at the appropriate points, which is sutured again over the implant. A day or two after the procedure, the wound will be checked as a precaution . After about ten days, the stitches are pulled. Now you can wait for the regeneration of the bone, the so-called " healing phase ", stress-free and usually without further medical appointments .
When and how do the teeth get onto the implant?
With a normal healing process, the implants in the upper jaw have grown firmly into the bone after about six months and in the lower jaw after about three months and are a natural part of your jaw. Your new dental crowns can now be securely attached to it. To do this, the implant "heads" are exposed again and small caps are temporarily screwed into them so that the gums can properly form. An imprint is made of this situationtaken. The dental technician uses this impression as the basis for making your dentures. After a precise color match and try-on , the dentures are securely attached to the implants.
(See also keyword "Immediate loading" under S)
Am I without teeth during the healing phase?
No. If you previously had removable dentures, there is usually the possibility that you can continue to wear them after a small adjustment. However, if you did not have a removable denture before, the gap can always be closed with a temporary . Under certain conditions, it can sometimes even be attached to the implants immediately. For this so-calledLong-term temporary restorations are very high-quality solutions that hardly differ from your final tooth crowns and your natural teeth.
Counseling
interview How do I prepare for the counseling interview?
If you have already obtained general information before the consultation, you will certainly be better able to follow the explanations that are specific to your situation. In any case, you can use the conversation to have all your questions answered. Perhaps you would like to make a small list in advance so that you do not forget anything. Please remember that there may be general illnesses or medication to be taken regularlycan also be important topics for your consultation.
Anesthesia
Is it really not necessary to have general anesthesia for the implantation?
No. The sensation of pain in the jaw can be completely switched off with a local anesthetic . When the implant bed is drilled into the bone and the implant is inserted, you will feel a vibration and a slight feeling of pressure, but no pain. Most patients perceive the procedure as similar to caries treatment, which is also carried out under local anesthesia. If you still prefer to "sleep through" the treatment, please ask.
Diabetes
Can I also get an implant as a diabetic?
Yes. However, they should be optimally adjusted in terms of medication. Badly controlled or untreated diabetes can impair the healing process due to metabolic factors . In case of doubt, your family doctor should therefore be involved.
Diseases
Are there any diseases that rule out an implantation?
Not really, but if you suffer from a serious general illness such as cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis , severe kidney damage , an increased tendency to bleed or a weakened immune systemyou should definitely inform us about it. We will advise you on the possibilities and together you can then make a decision regarding your specific health profile.
Renewal or extension of dentures
Can implant-borne dentures be renewed or, if additional teeth are lost, expanded?
Yes, the dentures can be renewed or changed at any time. A single tooth implant can easily be converted into a pillar for a bridge or prosthesis even after many years .
I already have a normal full denture. Do I need a new one to attach the implant?
If the existing prosthesis ensures optimal loading of the implants and good chewing function, it is entirely possible to rework it for implant fixation. Please ask, we will recommend the best solution.
What happens if your own tooth, which is integrated into the denture as a pillar, is lost?
If a tooth has to be removed, for example due to a root inflammation, it can usually be replaced with another implant without any problems. The support and possibly also the prosthesis are then modified accordingly.
Eating
Can I bite off and eat normally with implant-supported dentures?
Regardless of whether you have an implant-supported crown, bridge or prosthesis: You can use it to eat, bite off, talk and laugh like you did with your "second teeth" in the past. The dentures rests so firmly on your implants that you can feel completely safe.
Airport
control Does the implant beep, for example, during the control at the airport?
No, do not worry. Implants are not magnetic and, moreover, much too small to trigger a reaction from the detectors. And should the beeper still react to your implants, you have your implant pass with which you can clarify the situation quickly and discreetly.
Foreign body sensation
Do implant-borne teeth feel like my own or do I have a foreign body sensation?
Implant-supported teeth give you a completely natural mouthfeel when you talk, eat and laugh . You don't feel any difference.
Pacemaker
Do implants affect my pacemaker?
No. Implants have no electromagnetic effect . They therefore do not pose a threat to the functioning of your pacemaker.
Durability
How long does an implant last?
After the healing phase there is a professionally inserted quality implantmore resistant to some influences than the natural tooth root. A titanium implant with optimal prosthetic load does not break. And it can't get tooth decay. With consistent oral hygiene, you also keep the gums and the implant bed healthy. Implants can therefore last your life .
Implant
material What material are implants made of?
Implants are made of medical grade titanium . The material has proven itself so well that 99% of all dental implant systems are now made from this material. It is highly stable and is very well accepted by the body. In addition, titanium grows firmly together with the bone tissue. It has proven these positive properties for decades not only in dental implantology , but also in many other medical areas, for example in joint prosthetics. The silvery-gray color of titanium is also not a disadvantage, as implants - like natural tooth roots - sit completely in the jawbone and are invisible.
For several years there have also been white ceramic implants . However, the first generations of alumina ceramics did not have sufficient material strength to compete with titanium. Today's ceramic implants consist of highly stable zirconium oxide ceramics and are currently in the testing phase. However, titanium is still the material of choice as an implant material.
Ceramic
Which dental material is suitable for the tooth crowns?
Most crowns and bridges are made of metals or metal alloys and veneered with ceramic in the color of the tooth. The highly aesthetic alternative is all-ceramics . Zirconium oxide ceramicDue to its high strength, it is particularly suitable for implant-supported dentures. It is suitable for individual tooth crowns, but also for larger bridges and reflects the incident light just like the natural tooth substance. This dental prosthesis can therefore hardly be distinguished from natural teeth.
Bone augmentation
When can bone augmentation be necessary?
If teeth and thus the natural chewing load in the jaw are missing for a long time, the bone gradually recedes. It is similar to a muscle that atrophies when it is no longer stressed. Certain germs can also destroy the bones. One speaks of periodontal disease , better known as periodontal disease- an inflammatory periodontal disease. If the bone substance is so weakened or thin that an implant can no longer be held, bone grafting is advisable. The bone tissue is restored as gently as possible with the body's own or bone-replacing material. Often a mixture of both is used. The building material is deposited directly on the bones and gradually converted into resilient bone substance by the body. In this way, the bone can be widened or increased. In the back of the upper jaw, the bone is usually lifted using a so-called sinus liftelevated. This prevents part of the implant from protruding into the maxillary sinus. It is often possible to build the bone directly during the implantation. However, a separate outpatient procedure may be required beforehand.
Costs
What costs do I have to expect?
The costs can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment and the number of implants. The guideline value for an implant-supported crown including all medical and dental services is around 2,000 euros . An implant-supported bridge (for three missing teeth) starts at around 4,000 euros and a full denture at 6,000 euros. The treatment and cost plan that you will receive before the start of treatment gives you precise information about the individual cost situation .
Reimbursement
pays me the health insurance on that?
Yes. Since January 2005, the statutory health insurances in Germany have also been paying a fixed allowance for implant-borne dentures . This fixed subsidy is based on the so-called standard supply . This is a crown, bridge or prosthesis that represents the minimum standard for a certain initial finding .
The following fixed grants result as an example :
- If you have a missing tooth, you will get around 270 euros .
- If four front teeth are missing next to each other, you will get around 380 euros .
- If you have five missing teeth or a free-end situation, you will receive around 270 euros .
- With a toothless lower jaw you get around 270 euros , with a toothless upper jaw around 250 euros .
If you can prove that you have had regular dental check-ups in the last five years before starting treatment, the fixed allowance increases by 20 percent . If proof of pension provision has been made in the last ten calendar years, the fixed allowance increases by a total of 30 percent.
Taking medication
Are there any drug interactions?
This is possible with certain medications. Cortisone , for example, can alter the body's metabolic and immune system, which can lead to problems with healing. Anticoagulant drugs can cause profuse bleeding during implantation. If you have to take medication regularly, you should therefore make this an issue in the consultation .
At night
Do I have to take out an implant-supported prosthesis at night?
A conventional prosthesis should be removed at night because it can come off during sleep and possibly block the throat or airway. An implant-supported prosthesis is usually so tight that it can be worn safely at night. If you want, you can wear your prosthesis around the clock.
Periodontitis / Periodontosis
(See also keyword "Bone Structure" under K)
Risks
Is the implantation associated with risks?
An implantation is a small operation. Complications such as injuries to nerves and blood vessels are generally possible when inserting the implants. However, with today's diagnostic and planning options, this can largely be ruled out. There are usually no greater risks with an implantation overall than with a wisdom tooth extraction.
Also a sudden rejection reactiona fully healed implant is very unlikely. In rare cases, however, it can happen that the bone does not enclose the implant tightly enough. It would then not be sufficiently resilient and would very likely have to be removed again under local anesthesia. Usually, however, a new implant can be placed afterwards, often in the same session - if you wish.
What if an implant catches fire?
Detected early, inflammations, which are usually caused by bacteria, can usually be treated successfully. If you regularly attend your follow -up and prophylaxis appointments and also brush your teeth regularly at home, you should be on the safe side.
Are implants also useful for smokers?
The long-term success of implants can be jeopardized by smoking. Please address your smoking habits in the consultation, then your individual risk can be better assessed.
Pain
Will I be in pain after the procedure?
The gums are likely to be tender for the first few days, but will no longer bleed. The cheek may temporarily swell and feel uncomfortable. Most patients do not even need a pain pill the next day and can go back to their normal everyday life.
Beautiful teeth
I only need individual implants, but would like to have lighter or more beautiful teeth overall. Is that possible?
Dark teeth can often be whitened with bleaching . Unsightly tooth fronts can be made with plastic or fine ceramic shells, so-called veneers, be blinded. The crowns for the implants are then made lighter from the start or according to the new tooth shape. Talk to us about it: There is a solution for almost every problem.
Sinus lift
(see also keyword "bone structure" under K)
Immediate loading
What exactly is meant by "immediate loading" and is it also an option for me?
The usual route to implant-supported teeth provides for an unloaded healing phase after the implant has been inserted . With this approach, the gap is temporarily closed with a classic provisional solutionclosed, which is attached to the neighboring teeth, for example. In the so-called immediate loading, new implant systems and methods are used which, under certain conditions, allow the dentures or the temporary to be attached to the implants immediately. Patients get their implants and have fixed, natural-looking teeth again the same day. Whether immediate loading is also an option for you depends, for example, on the condition of the jawbone and the position of the implants . Just talk to us about these options.
(See also "duration of treatment" under B)
Immediate implant placement
Can implants be used immediately after removing teeth?
Yes, that is often possible today. The implant is placed in the still fresh wound immediately after a tooth has been removed. This is called immediate implantation (not to be confused with immediate loading of implants).
Sport
And what about sport after the implantation?
Movement is generally not a problem after implantation. However, when it comes to activities involving vigorous physical exertion , you should discuss this with us beforehand. In order not to impair wound healing, a rest period of a few days may be recommended .
Dental care
How do I care for my implant-borne teeth?
Implant-borne teeth don't just look like natural teeth. You can also brush them just as easily with a toothbrush - even an electric one - and toothpaste. The spaces between the teeth and the transitions to the gums are particularly important with implants . Germs quickly settle here, which can attack the gums and, over time, the jawbone around the implant. However, this can be prevented with dental floss or small interdental brushes . On request, our prophylaxis team will show you how to use the utensils correctly and will take care of professional teeth cleaning at regular intervals - about every three months. Even stubborn deposits are completely removed and your teeth shine again with their old freshness.