What is a fixed implant and for whom is it used?
There are many ways to replace missing teeth. Among all of them, fixed dental implants are one of the most practical methods. Of course, the variety of these methods in some cases causes confusion for patients and they don’t know which one to choose. The specialist doctor usually guides people to choose the best method. But knowing each method completely will help to make a better decision in this regard. In this article, we are going to talk about fixed implants and examine everything about them.
What is a fixed implant?
These implants are the best substitutes for missing teeth, which largely solve the problems of artificial teeth for people. These implants have a base that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone. In fact, this part plays the role of the root of the tooth. This base is placed between the gums. After a while, when the base of the implant is well placed in the jawbone and between the gums, the crown of the fixed implant, known as the prosthesis, is placed on it.
What are the differences between fixed and mobile implants?
Structurally, the fixed implant is stronger. In typical examples, each prosthesis needed a base. Like primary teeth, each of which has a unique root. But today’s advanced methods help that fewer bases can support more prostheses.
When there are no teeth, the person’s lips and cheeks droop and his jaw bones weaken. To the extent that there is a possibility of breaking them. Fixed prostheses can prevent these problems better than mobile models.
Types of fixed implants
The raw materials used to make prosthetics and the basis of implants are diverse. Each of them has its own characteristics. The doctor determines which prosthesis is best for the patient. The best doctors use the best raw materials to make different parts of fixed implants. The base of the implant is usually metal and is made using titanium. Titanium can harmonize well with the structure of the jawbone and the body accepts it, but the prosthesis or crown may be made with different materials. The materials used to make this part are;
- Metal-resin prostheses.
- Metal-ceramic prostheses.
- All-ceramic prostheses.
Who is this type of implant suitable for?
The groups mentioned below are the best candidates for using fixed implants.
- People who have recently lost their teeth and are looking for a suitable solution to replace them.
- People who have used artificial teeth and feel uncomfortable.
- People who are looking for a long-term solution to replace their missing teeth.
In general, by using these teeth, a person can look good and chew different foods. Usually, anyone can use this method. Even if their bone does not have enough density to hold the implant base, this problem can be solved with bone grafting. But to make sure that this method is suitable for you, you can consult a doctor specializing in this field.
What are the advantages of fixed implants?
These implants are most similar to natural teeth in terms of appearance and function. This is their most important advantage over other methods of replacing missing teeth, such as removable implants or artificial teeth. Other advantages of this method include the following.
- These teeth do not need to be fixed on the gums and support, and therefore the patient feels comfortable.
- As the patient’s jaw becomes fat or thin, the fixed implant does not change and is not annoying for the person.
- With the help of these prostheses, a person can eat a wide variety of foods and will not be limited in chewing.
- The fixed implant supports the jaw bones and prevents them from degenerating.
- Not having teeth makes a person’s face look old. The similarity of the implant to the natural tooth also eliminates this problem.
- They usually do not loosen or fall.
- Fixed prostheses last a long time.
This has made people who have used this method to be completely satisfied. A beautiful appearance, ease of chewing and resemblance to natural teeth increase the self-confidence of people in the community.
How is a fixed implant implanted?
First, the doctor takes the necessary radiographs of the patient’s jaw and teeth. This work helps to know the structure of the bones, sinuses and nerves of the jaw. Also, the doctor understands how many implants the patient needs and where is the ideal place for them. A canal must be created in the jawbone for each implant.
Implant surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. After the root implant surgery, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth for one to three months. This period should be passed for the jaw bone to fuse and the base to fit in it. These temporary teeth are not suitable for chewing hard foods.
After the necessary time, it is time to replace the permanent prostheses with temporary ones. After the placement of the crowns, the process of implant placement ends. After the recovery period, which usually lasts up to a month, a person can use his implants like a natural tooth.
What is the care after fixed implantation?
After the end of the implant surgery, the patient returns home the same day. After one or two days, he can resume his daily routine and go to work. Pain and swelling are common side effects of surgery. For this reason, the doctor prescribes a painkiller that the patient can take in times of pain. The patient should include only soft foods in his diet for several weeks. It is better to use only watery foods that do not require much chewing in the first days.
Caring for a fixed implant is not very different from taking care of normal teeth. Just follow your oral hygiene, brush your teeth, floss your teeth and use the right mouthwash.
How long does a fixed implant last?
This method is one of the most durable methods for replacing lost teeth. If a person takes good care of them, the success rate for more than 15 years will be more than 95%.
One thing to note is that prostheses are not 100% resistant! Some people assume that they will never crack and therefore may eat very hard foods, crack nuts with them, and do other damaging things. Remember that a fixed implant is like a natural tooth, and even natural human teeth break when exposed to danger!
How much does an implant cost?
This issue depends on the number of fixed implants, the type of prostheses and the skill of the doctor. Although implants are one of the most expensive dental procedures, their benefits make them a long-term investment. Each of the less expensive methods creates problems. Some methods only look like natural teeth and a person cannot eat well with them. Others perform well, but are clearly artificial. Artificial teeth that are not implanted in the jawbone also cannot prevent the process of bone loss. These methods also need to be renewed or renewed every few years.
The fixed implant does not have these types of problems, and for this reason, it is considered one of the best methods. Since the cost of implantation is different for each person, to estimate the cost, it is necessary for the person to be examined by a doctor first, and then the details of the cost and process are determined.
