Dental implants and prosthetics enhance overall quality of life
Losing one or multiple teeth can occur due to various reasons, such as injuries, accidents, or natural wear over time.
Laimonas Šukys, an orthopedic dentist at Kardiolita Hospital in Kaunas, explains that losing even a single tooth can lead to complications. Adjacent teeth may begin to shift into the gap, while the opposing tooth can start to elongate. The longer the delay in replacing a missing tooth, the more significant the damage becomes. In some cases, after a prolonged period, orthodontic treatment may be required before the tooth can be restored.
There are three main types of prosthetic treatment:
- Prosthodontics on natural teeth,
- Prosthetics on the edentulous alveolar ridge, and
- Prosthetics on implants.
According to Dr. Šukys, the third option—implant-supported prosthetics—is the most effective. It avoids the need to grind down healthy teeth, thereby preserving them and preventing unnecessary loss of hard tissue.
Vaidilė Subačienė, a dentist at Vilnius Kardiolita Hospital, describes the dental implantation process. The procedure begins with an incision in the gum to expose the bone. Based on precise bone measurements, a site is prepared for the implant, which is then inserted and secured. Finally, the gum is sutured closed.
The implantation itself typically takes 30–40 minutes per implant. The healing process, during which the implant integrates with the bone, takes about 4–6 months. After this period, a prosthesis can be attached to the implant.
Unlike removable dentures, implant-supported prostheses are securely fixed, providing stability and preventing sagging, gum recession, or irritation often caused by traditional dentures.
Post-procedure, the dentist provides tailored oral hygiene instructions, which usually align closely with standard oral care practices but may vary depending on the patient's specific needs.
