Dental implants are a complete restoration of lost teeth from the root to the tip. This means that the artificial metal roots, which are called implants, are engrafted in the jawbone. The appearance of an implant is similar to that of a natural tooth.
The general term implantation denotes the introduction of non-biological origin materials into the organism in order to replace a lost organ and restore its function. In dentistry, metal (titanium or other) dental implants, installed in the missing teeth places. One-step implantation of teeth begins almost immediately after the implant placement, and two-stage procedure suggests delayed prosthetics.
There are three basic methods for dental implantation, which are individually selected by experts, depending on the basis of clinical indications of their functioning and the aesthetic tastes of a patient. As a rule, the following methods of dental implants are applied:
• the method of classical (traditional) dental implants
• method of dental implants without bone augmentation (4D method)
• one-step method transgingival dental implants.
The classical method of implantation is a complex of thorough medical examination, multiple operations including bone augmentation with subsequent treatment. It is the oldest method of implantation; it requires a long period of time and has a few contraindications. It is not recommended for elderly patients and cannot be performed in those patients whose teeth have long been removed.
4D implantology is the modern concept of dental implants, which has been used in Europe for over 10 years. The method of implantation is primarily intended for the rapid recovery of masticatory function in patients. With this method, implants can be installed without increasing the bone even in cases with the bone level of only 4 mm. Due to its reliability, versatility and unique performance, it is recommended even to edentulous patients. Having undergone the operation, patients can smile and chew solid food in a week after surgery. The technique and the design of implants designs are fundamentally different from the traditional ones.
With the transgingival method, the lost tooth recovered in 2-4 visits to the dentist. The method is recommended for patients who fear surgical procedures and causes no discomfort after the implantation. It suggests the ability to place the implant immediately after tooth extraction. A wide range of orthopedic solutions is available for any individual case.
The main difference between traditional dentures installation and implantation, thus, is that the term ‘implant’ denotes only the supporting structure, on which an artificial crown is installed. Implants are installed directly into the bone, or, in some cases, under the gum tissue. There is a variety of different modifications of the implants, which allows the dentist to find the optimal solution in accordance with the indications and contraindications of each method.