Implant-Supported Fixed Prostheses

Lost teeth and uncomfortable prostheses severely damage a person's quality of life. You may find your teeth uncomfortable and unnatural when using them. To have reliable teeth and not worry while eating, fixed prosthesis treatment on implants stands out as an attractive option.

Unlike standard dental solutions, implant-supported fixed prostheses not only provide an aesthetic improvement but also offer great comfort of use. Specialist Dentist Emin Serhat Arıkan, who serves his patients in Adana, explained what fixed prostheses on implants are and how they are applied.

What is a Fixed Prosthesis on an Implant?

Classically used prostheses can be uncomfortable for patients. Traditional prostheses can make speaking difficult and create some challenges in chewing function. In contrast, fixed prostheses on implants significantly increase the quality of life. Fixed implant prostheses allow you to trust your teeth when eating and speaking. They also make it possible for you to regain your aesthetic smile.

What are the Advantages of Fixed Prostheses on Implants?

Fixed prostheses placed on implants, which act as artificial tooth roots, make you feel as if you are using your natural teeth. They ensure that speaking and eating functions continue smoothly. Fixed prostheses on implants offer a safer alternative to traditional treatments for tooth loss. They enhance both the oral and dental aesthetics and daily life comfort of the individual.

Personalized Fixed Prosthesis Treatment on Implants

Fixed prostheses on implants are securely attached to the jawbone. This feature makes them stand out from alternative methods in terms of durability. In addition to providing a natural and aesthetic appearance, they promise comfort in daily use. They allow you to maintain the functions of your teeth without experiencing jawbone loss. By evaluating individual factors such as jawbone density and quality, the number and location of missing teeth, a treatment plan that perfectly meets the patient's needs and expectations can be created.

Why Fixed Prosthesis Treatment on Implants?

The use and care of classic removable prostheses can be difficult for individuals. Fixed prostheses on implants can be used much longer when proper care practices are followed. They yield highly successful results functionally and aesthetically. Since implants act as tooth roots, the patient eventually begins to feel as if they don't have a prosthesis in their mouth, but are using their natural teeth.

How is Fixed Prosthesis Treatment on Implants Applied?

Fixed prostheses on implants are secured onto titanium screws, called implants, which are placed in the patient's jawbone to compensate for teeth lost due to any reason. The fixed prosthesis treatment process on implants, which can be applied with bridges or crowns, first begins with a comprehensive physical and radiological examination. Afterwards, a treatment plan is created according to the individual's needs.

Before the treatment, anesthesia is administered to the patient, and then the implants are placed. A period of usually two to six months is needed for the implant to biologically adapt and integrate with the jawbone. During this waiting period, the patient uses temporary prostheses for their comfort of life.

After the healing process is completed, the implants become integrated with the patient's jawbone. Afterwards, the prosthesis stage begins. Measurements are taken for the fixed prosthesis teeth to be placed on the implant and prepared in a laboratory environment. Generally, zirconium or porcelain material is used. These custom-prepared permanent teeth are bonded or screwed onto the implants. The patient regains oral and dental aesthetics. They regain their speaking and chewing functions. It is an attractive treatment option for patients who do not want to experience the difficulties of removable prostheses.

Who is Fixed Prosthesis Treatment on Implants Suitable For?

Fixed prosthesis treatment on implants is a procedure applied to patients who have lost one or more teeth and want to address this problem with a longer-lasting, durable, aesthetic, and functional method instead of removable prostheses. For fixed prosthesis treatment on implants to be applicable, the patient must first have sufficient density, volume, and quality of jawbone tissue. In addition, the patient's general health status must be suitable for this surgical intervention. Fixed prostheses on implants are preferred more frequently because removable prostheses can cause sores on the palate, move out of place, are difficult to maintain, and create chewing and speaking difficulties.

For fixed prosthesis treatment on implants to be successful, the patient must pay attention to oral care and hygiene. In addition, harmful habits such as smoking, which can harm the healing process, should be abandoned. Fixed prostheses on implants can be safely applied to people with healthy gums, sufficient density and amount of bone tissue, and patients looking for the comfort of natural teeth.

How to Care for Fixed Prostheses on Implants?

For your fixed prostheses on implants to be used long-term, you need to pay attention to care and hygiene, just like with your natural permanent teeth. Implants are made of titanium and are resistant to decay. However, the adjacent gum and bone tissue are still susceptible to bacteria and plaque accumulation. Therefore, teeth should be brushed at least twice a day using soft-bristled toothbrushes. Abrasive toothpaste should not be preferred. All surfaces of the prostheses should be cleaned, interdental brushes should be used, and antibacterial mouthwashes should be used.

You should also include dental floss in your dental care routine. Oral showers should also be preferred for cleaning the gums. This way, food residues accumulated under the prosthesis, in hard-to-reach spots, can be cleaned.

What is the Lifespan of Fixed Prostheses on Implants?

Fixed prostheses on implants are generally a treatment procedure that provides long-term results. However, how long fixed prostheses on implants can be used depends on the correct planning of the treatment, the quality of the material used in the prostheses, and the patient's oral hygiene. Implants that achieve full biological compatibility and integration with the jawbone can often remain in the mouth for a lifetime. However, the chewing ability of the porcelain or zirconium teeth placed on them may decrease over time, and wear may occur. But fixed prostheses on implants that are well cared for and regularly checked by a dentist can be used problem-free for ten to fifteen years. With proper care, this lifespan extends further.

One of the most decisive factors affecting the lifespan of the prosthesis and the underlying implants is the health of the gum and jawbone tissue around the implant. If the person does not pay due attention to oral care and hygiene, gum diseases may occur. This poses a risk for implants and natural teeth. Bruxism, or teeth clenching habits, can cause prostheses to wear out quickly.