Our Summary

This research paper discusses the importance of having a dental implant register, which can systematically track the results of dental implant treatments in different clinical settings. The authors reviewed the existence and importance of quality registers for various medical conditions and procedures, and suggested corrections and recommendations. They also discussed what information should be included in such a register. The consensus was to present the idea of an implant quality register to the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) Board for further discussion and decision-making. The register would aim to improve patient outcomes and provide valuable data for further research and development in the field of dental implants.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of establishing a dental implant register?
  2. What type of information would be included in a dental implant register?
  3. How would the creation of a dental implant register benefit patients and further research in the field?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by their dentist or oral surgeon. This includes proper oral hygiene practices, avoiding certain foods that may cause irritation or infection, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure successful healing and long-term success of the dental implant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended dental implant surgery include those who have lost one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, tooth decay, trauma, or other reasons. Candidates for dental implants should have good oral health and sufficient bone density to support the implant. Patients with missing teeth who are looking for a more permanent and natural-looking solution than dentures or bridges may also be good candidates for dental implant surgery. Additionally, patients who are unable to wear removable dentures or who are seeking a more stable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement may benefit from dental implants. Ultimately, the decision to undergo dental implant surgery should be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional who can assess the individual patient’s specific needs and determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Timeline

Before Dental Implant Surgery:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with a dentist or oral surgeon for a consultation to discuss their oral health, treatment options, and expectations for dental implants.
  2. Treatment planning: A comprehensive treatment plan is developed based on the patient’s individual needs and oral health condition.
  3. Pre-operative evaluations: The patient may undergo dental X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic tests to assess the bone density and structure of the jawbone.
  4. Preparing the site: If necessary, the patient may need to undergo procedures such as tooth extractions or bone grafts to prepare the site for the dental implant.

After Dental Implant Surgery:

  1. Healing period: The patient undergoes a healing period of several months to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
  2. Placement of abutment: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is placed on top of the implant to connect the artificial tooth or dental crown.
  3. Fabrication of artificial tooth: A dental crown or artificial tooth is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth.
  4. Final restoration: The artificial tooth is attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant restoration.
  5. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure the implant is functioning properly.
  6. Maintenance: The patient is advised on how to care for their dental implant, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to maintain oral health and the longevity of the implant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with dental implant surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery time after dental implant surgery?
  3. How successful are dental implants in the long term?
  4. What type of maintenance and care will be required for my dental implants?
  5. Will I need a bone graft or sinus lift before receiving dental implants?
  6. How many dental implant procedures has the dentist performed, and what is their success rate?
  7. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous dental implant patients?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  9. Will I be able to eat and speak normally after receiving dental implants?
  10. What is the expected lifespan of dental implants, and will they need to be replaced in the future?

Reference

Authors: Klinge B, Sanz M, Alcoforado G, Bienz SP, Cosyn J, De Bruyn H, Derks J, Figuero E, Gurzawska K, Heitz-Mayfield L, Jung RE, Ornekul T, Sagado A. Journal: Clin Oral Implants Res. 2018 Oct;29 Suppl 18:157-159. doi: 10.1111/clr.13269. PMID: 30306692