Losing teeth can cost us not only physically but also psychologically. It can negatively affect our smile, self-confidence and our ability to enjoy daily activities comfortably and easily. In addition, those who are afraid of treatments that last for months may avoid such operations and increase their distress even more. Today, with advancing technologies, it has become easier and more effective to get rid of this situation. For example, seamless dental implants can change your approach to implant treatment by offering a minimally invasive treatment.
Also called a mini implant, seamless implant can be a good option for anyone looking for a convenient, effective solution by offering stability and functionality.
What is a seamless implant? How are they different from traditional implants?
Traditional implants consist of a screw, a connector, and a restoration. The screw is surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a secure location for the implant. However, due to the size of the implant, a bone graft is often required before the jaw is strong enough to hold it securely. This surgery extends the treatment timeline by several months.
Once the bone has healed and the screw is surgically placed, the implant needs months to osseointegrate (the fusion of the implant and bone). The connector and restoration can then be attached. Not only does the placement of a traditional implant take months and multiple stages, but it is also an invasive surgery. As a result, patients may experience pain and discomfort.
Seamless dental implants eliminate many of the disadvantages of traditional implants due to their small size and design. A seamless implant is about half the size of a traditional implant. This makes them ideal for patients who are experiencing tissue loss in their jaws and are looking for a non-surgical solution. Unlike traditional implants that are multi-piece, seamless implants are only one piece, making them simpler and faster to place.
The seamless implant procedure allows us to see the result immediately because the implant is fixed instantly. After the procedure, the teeth are functional. Also, since it is a minimally invasive technique, recovery can be shorter.
How is the seamless implant procedure?
A one-stage procedure is performed for non-surgical dental implants. By carefully evaluating the jaw, soft tissues and bone structure before the operation, optimum implant placement areas are precisely determined.
Instead of making an incision, a special drilling tool is used to create a small opening in the gum where the implant is directly placed. This method greatly reduces tissue damage.
By attaching healing caps during the initial operation, the two procedure stages are effectively combined and the overall treatment time is shortened.
Once the implant has successfully integrated with the bone, final aesthetic adjustments are simple and painless. Impressions are taken without the need for anesthesia and the procedure is complete once occlusal adjustments are completed.
You may experience some tenderness after the procedure, but this is usually short-lived.
How to care for seamless mini implants?
Seamless implants are durable, but it’s essential to keep them in good condition. Basic oral care is essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings will extend the life of your implants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seamless Implants
Are seamless implants as strong as traditional implants?
Despite their smaller size, seamless implants are strong and reliable. Their compact structure does not reduce their effectiveness.
They are a good choice for fixing dentures because they can alleviate common difficulties experienced by denture wearers. Ill-fitting dentures can lead to various problems such as mouth sores, inflamed gums, and infections. They also make daily tasks such as chewing and speaking more difficult. Using seamless dental implants as anchors for dentures provides stability and comfort by creating a secure base. In addition, when one or more teeth are missing, seamless implants can support a dental bridge or dental crowns.
What makes seamless implants different from traditional methods?
The thin diameter of seamless implants significantly reduces the placement time compared to traditional ones. Additionally, their streamlined design allows us to place them in fewer sessions.
This procedure usually does not require a bone graft, eliminating the time needed for bone healing. Additionally, since the placement is non-surgical, patients can usually return to their daily activities within 48 hours of placement.
Are seamless implants right for you?
Seamless mini implants are versatile and are especially effective for:
- Those who want a permanent solution for missing teeth and gaps in their smiles
- Those who are nervous or anxious about invasive surgical (traditional) procedures
- Those who need a budget-friendly dental solution
- Those who are concerned about long recovery times
- Those with limited time (For example, our patients who come to our country as part of health tourism can return to their country faster or have more time to enjoy Istanbul thanks to this procedure)
Who are suitable for seamless implants? not applicable?
Sutureless dental implants may offer a viable alternative for many people, but a thorough evaluation by a dentist is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.
This procedure is not recommended or requires a detailed specialist evaluation for the following individuals:
- Children whose jaws are still developing (Implants can integrate with growing bone and cause complications over time.)
- Those who have problems such as bruxism and receding gums
- Those who have insufficient jaw bone density due to severe tooth decay or bone loss (Although less bone is required than the traditional procedure, there should still be a minimum amount of bone.)
- Those with vascular problems
- Those with bone disorders such as osteoporosis
- Those with clotting problems
- Those with advanced periodontal disease that impairs bone and wound healing
- Those with poor oral hygiene
- Those taking anticoagulant medications or undergoing chemotherapy/radiation
Dentists also carefully evaluates patients with systemic disorders or those taking medications that slow bone repair.
How many days does it take for a seamless implant to heal?
The answer to this question depends on the patient’s general condition, but healing is faster than traditional implant treatment. Since the oral tissue is less damaged in a seamless implant, the healing process is accelerated.