What is a dental implant fixture? Zero to One Hundred Uses, Benefits and Cares (2023)

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Introduction

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth and play a key role in restoring the normal function of the mouth and teeth. In this method, one of the main components used to maintain the artificial tooth crown is the implant fixture. This piece plays the role of the root of the tooth and is placed inside the jaw bone. In this article, we will discuss the complete implant fixture, its uses, benefits, and how to take care of it.

What is a dental implant fixture?

The implant fixture is the base that is placed inside the jawbone and acts as the root of the artificial tooth. This piece is usually made of titanium or body-compatible alloys and because of its biological properties, it integrates well with the jawbone.

Types of dental implant fixtures

Dental implant fixture acts as a base for dental prosthesis and has different types. Below are some types of dental implant fixtures:

Single stage implants:

These types of implants are implanted in one step and placed directly in the jawbone. These implants are usually suitable for patients who need quick treatment.

Two-stage implants:

These types of implants are installed in two stages. In the first stage, the fixture is placed in the jawbone, and then after a period of recovery, the second stage is performed in which the prosthetic parts are installed on the fixture..

Short implants:

Due to their short length, these implants are suitable for patients with insufficient jawbone.

Immediate loading implants:

These implants are designed in such a way that they can be used immediately after implantation prosthesis installed on them. These types of implants are ideal for patients who do not want to remain without teeth for a while.

Angular implants:

These implants are planted at a certain angle and are used when there is not enough space to plant a straight implant..

Screw implants:

These types of implants are designed in the form of screws and are easily placed in the bone. This design makes the implant stay in place.

Subsinusoidal implants:

These implants are designed for patients who have decreased bone volume in the maxillary sinus area..

Temporary dental implants:

These implants can be used in the temporary treatment phase to help improve the beauty and function of the tooth.

According to the patient’s conditions and his special needs, the dentist chooses the right type of implant fixture.

روش انجام فیکسچرایمپلنت دندانApplication of dental implant fixture

The fixture plays an important role in the success of the dental implant. This piece acts as a strong base for maintaining the crown of the tooth and is responsible for bearing the forces caused by chewing and biting. Fixture applications include the following:

Replacing missing teeth:

Using the fixture, Missing teeth They are restored without damaging the adjacent teeth.

prevention of Osteolysis of the jaw:

When a natural tooth is lost, the jawbone degenerates without stimulation; But with the placement of the fixture, the jaw bone is still stimulated and does not degenerate.

Increasing the beauty of the smile:

Implants that are installed on a fixture base have a natural and beautiful appearance and restore the patient’s confidence.

Dental implant fixture installation steps

Several steps are taken to implant the fixture:

1. Evaluation and planning

At this stage, the dentist examines the condition of the jaw bone and the health of the patient’s mouth. If the jawbone is not strong enough to accommodate the fixture, you may need a bone graft.

2. Fixture implantation surgery

The fixture is placed in the jawbone during a small surgery. This surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes a short time. After surgery, it takes several months (between 3 and 6 months) for the fixture to integrate well with the jaw bone.

3. Installation of abutment and dental crown

After the fixture is successfully integrated with the bone, a piece called an abutment is installed on the fixture and finally, the dental crown is placed on the abutment.

Advantages of dental implant fixtures

The implant fixture has many advantages that make it a superior choice for replacing missing teeth:

High lifespan:

With proper care, the implant fixture can last for the rest of the patient’s life.

Natural appearance:

The teeth that are installed on the fixture look very natural and match the natural teeth of the patient.

High stability and strength:

Due to the integration with the jaw bone, the fixture gives the artificial tooth high stability and strength.

Maintaining the health of adjacent teeth:

In this method, unlike a dental bridge, there is no need to shave adjacent teeth.

Prevent bone loss:

The fixture stimulates the jaw bone and prevents its decay after tooth loss.

How to take care of the dental implant fixture

To prolong life and prevent infection or possible problems, it is necessary to observe oral and dental health care after implanting a fixture:

1. Brushing and flossing

use of toothbrush And dental floss for the implant helps to keep the area around the fixture clean. It is better to use non-abrasive toothpaste so as not to damage the crown or fixture.

2. Visit the dentist regularly

It is necessary to visit the dentist regularly to check the condition of the implant and fixture. The dentist examines the condition of the gums and bone around the fixture and diagnoses any possible problems before they become serious.

3. Avoid hard and sticky foods

In the first weeks after surgery, it is better to avoid hard and sticky foods that may put too much pressure on the implant.

4. Avoid bad habits

Harmful habits such as teeth grinding and using teeth as tools to open things can damage fixtures and implants. Also, quitting smoking is essential for faster recovery and prevention of infection.

نکات مراقبتی درمورد بهداشت دهانComplications and possible problems of implant fixtures

Although dental implants are one of the most successful dental procedures, in some cases problems may arise:

Infection:

If oral hygiene is not observed, the area around the fixture may get infected.

Unsuccessful fusion with bone:

In some cases, the fixture does not integrate properly with the jawbone and the surgery will need to be repeated.

Implant loosening:

If the fixture is not well placed in the bone or there is too much pressure on it, the implant will be loose.

Dental implant fixture is not suitable for whom?

People with severe systemic diseases:

People who have chronic diseases such as uncontrolled diabetes, immune system deficiency or cardiovascular diseases.

Chemotherapy or radiation therapy:

Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments may not be able to tolerate the implant.

Active infections:

The presence of infection in the mouth or other areas may cause the failure of the implant.

Unhygienic teeth:

People who do not observe oral and dental hygiene and suffer from gum diseases.

Nurses or people concerned about hormonal changes:

Hormonal changes can affect the stability of the implant.

History of unhealthy habits:

People who smoke or drink alcohol may be at risk of implant failure.

Lack of enough bone:

People who do not have enough bone in the area where the implant is to be placed

Who is dental implant fixture suitable for?

People without oral infection:

People who observe oral and dental hygiene.

People with good general health:

Those who have controlled chronic diseases and are in good health.

People with enough bones:

People who have enough bone in the implant placement area or can use bone grafting.

People with knowledge of treatment steps:

Those who are aware of the steps of treatment and aftercare and commit themselves to doing it.

Consultation with a specialist dentist and a detailed examination can help determine the suitability of an implant for each person.

conclusion

The dental implant fixture is one of the key components of the implant, which acts as the artificial root of the tooth and plays a vital role in the success of the implant. By observing health care and visiting the dentist regularly, this method can be a permanent and effective solution for replacing lost teeth. Dr. Shibani Nia offers the best services for his patients with high experience in the field of implant implantation and using modern equipment.

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Dr.AhmadSheibaninia, Orthodontic Fellowship and Oral Surgeon

One of Iran’s pioneering orthodontists to treat patients using invisible orthodontics (since 2004) and among the first globally to perform invisible orthodontic treatment involving tooth extraction.

Holder of a revolutionary US-registered patent that eliminates the need for operating-room upper-jaw surgery and general anesthesia for patients of all ages.

Author of *Problem-Based Research*—the country’s most practical guidebook for conducting research projects across all medical and dental disciplines.

Recipient of the 2018 Asia Peace Award; Dr. Ahmad Sheibaninia was honored in Macau by the Sino-Luso organization as an exemplary Asian dentist in recognition of his valuable inventions and scientific publications.