Losing a piece of tooth not only affects the aesthetics of the smile, it can also compromise masticatory function, bite balance and jaw bone health. Understanding when a dental implant is needed enables informed decisions to avoid future complications and regain full mouth functionality. From our dental clinic in Malaga, we know that although there are other alternatives such as bridges or removable prostheses, the implant is usually the most stable, durable and comfortable solution in the long term.
When is a dental implant needed?
Knowing when a dental implant is needed is key to avoiding functional and aesthetic complications in the mouth.
- Total loss of a tooth: when a tooth has been removed due to deep caries, trauma or periodontal disease, the implant is the most stable option for restoring it without damaging healthy parts.
- Severely damaged teeth with no possibility of restoration: if a tooth is fractured or destroyed to the root, and cannot be treated with endodontics or crowns, it is recommended that it be removed and an implant placed afterwards.
- Bone resorption due to prolonged absence of tooth: the implant acts as an artificial root, preventing progressive bone loss in the edentula area and preserving facial volume and structure.
- Instability or discomfort with removable prostheses: patients who wear mobile dentures may opt for implants to gain fixation, comfort and a better quality of daily life.
- Rehabilitation of multiple missing parts: when there are several dental absences, the implants allow to place fixed complete prostheses that restore masticatory functionality naturally.
What is the process of a dental implant?
The process of a dental implant begins with a personalized study of the patient, including x-rays and scans to assess bone quality and plan treatment. If the bone is in good condition, the implant is placed, which is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the maxillary bone. After placement, a period of osteointegration is required, usually lasting between two and four months, during which the implant fuses with bone. Once integrated, a pillar or connector is placed and finally the customized dental crown. The entire process is performed under local anesthesia and in expert hands is predictable, safe and minimally invasive.
Is the placement of a dental implant painful?
The placement of a dental implant is not painful, as it is performed under local anesthesia and the surgical procedure is very controlled. During the procedure, the patient does not feel pain; only a certain amount of pressure or vibration can be felt. After placement, it is normal to experience slight swelling or discomfort during the first few days, similar to those that may appear after a dental extraction. These symptoms are easily controlled with painkillers and anti-inflammatories prescribed by the dentist. In most cases, recovery is fast and well tolerated.
Can children have a dental implant?
No, dental implants are not placed on children while they are in the bone growth phase. Although a child may lose a tooth prematurely due to trauma or caries, the jaw bone and jaw are still developing, and placing a fixed implant could interfere with that growth, causing future alignment or functionality problems.
In these cases, it is most common to use temporary solutions, such as space maintainers or removable prostheses, until bone growth is complete. Normally, implants are evaluated only from the age of 18, although each case should always be assessed individually.
In Clínica Dental Gross Dentistas we have a team specialized in implantology, cutting-edge technology and an approach focused on the integral health of the patient. If you want to know more, contact us.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.