Dental Implants: Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing

Losing one or more teeth is not just an aesthetic issue – it can affect chewing, speech, and even the harmony of your face. In recent years, thanks to advances in dentistry, dental implants have become the most reliable and effective solution to replace missing teeth, restoring both a natural smile and full functionality.

But what exactly are dental implants? What advantages do they offer compared to traditional prostheses? And most importantly, how do you know if you are a good candidate?

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small screw, usually made of titanium or zirconia, that is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant integrates with the bone through a process called osseointegration, a prosthetic crown is placed on top, reproducing the look and function of a natural tooth.

Implants can replace a single tooth, several adjacent teeth, or even an entire arch. Compared to removable dentures, they offer greater stability, comfort, and long-term durability.

Types of dental implants

Not all implants are the same. The choice depends on the patient’s anatomy and the treatment plan designed by the dentist.

• Screw-retained implants: crowns are attached with a screw, making future maintenance easier if necessary.
• Cement-retained implants: the crown is fixed with biocompatible dental cement, ensuring strength and stability.
• Zygomatic implants: an innovative solution for patients with little or no bone in the upper jaw, anchored directly into the zygomatic bone and avoiding the need for bone grafting.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Choosing implants means investing not only in aesthetics but also in long-term oral health and overall well-being.

• Natural function: implants allow you to chew and speak without difficulty, just like natural teeth.
• Stability and confidence: unlike removable dentures, they do not shift, eliminating social discomfort.
• Bone preservation: implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss over time.
• Long-lasting results: with proper care and regular check-ups, implants can last decades.
• Flawless aesthetics: crowns are custom-made and indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Most people with missing teeth are potential candidates for implants. However, some important factors must be considered:

• Bone quality and quantity: a 3D CT scan helps assess the available bone volume.
• General health condition: uncontrolled diabetes, heart issues, or long-term use of anticoagulants require special evaluation.
• Lifestyle habits: smoking, for example, can compromise osseointegration and reduce implant lifespan.

Even in cases of bone loss, advanced techniques such as bone regeneration or zygomatic implants can make treatment possible.

How does the dental implant procedure work?

The implant journey is divided into several stages:

1. Initial consultation and diagnostic tests: including X-rays, 3D CT scans, and blood tests.
2. Personalized treatment planning: with digital implantology software to simulate placement and outcomes.
3. Implant surgery: performed under local anesthesia (sometimes with conscious sedation), usually painless.
4. Healing phase: the implant integrates with the bone over several months. In some cases, immediate loading allows the crown to be placed within hours.
5. Final crown placement: once osseointegration is complete, the definitive prosthesis is fitted, restoring both function and aesthetics.

How long do dental implants last?

Implant longevity depends on factors such as material quality, surgical technique, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits. With proper care, implants can last 20–30 years or even a lifetime.

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to keep implants healthy and prevent complications such as peri-implantitis.

Conclusion

Today, dental implants represent the most advanced, reliable, and long-lasting solution for restoring a natural and functional smile. However, every patient is unique: it is essential to rely on experienced specialists who can evaluate your case and recommend the most suitable treatment.

👉 Are you considering dental implants? Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward your new smile.