Implantology refers to the branch of dentistry that specialises in placing implants.
This modern technique involves attaching a prosthesis, crown or bridge to an artificial root placed inside the bone.
Natural teeth consist of two main components: the visible part of the tooth is called the crown, and the part under the gums, inside the alveolar bone (the jaw bone), is called the root.
Implants serve as an artificial root. Once the implant has been screwed into the alveolar bone (the jaw bone), a prosthesis consisting of one or more replacement teeth can be implemented. Titanium and ceramics are the two main materials used to produce implants.
The process of inserting an implant and a prosthesis can take from a few weeks to more than a year. It starts with the diagnosis and assessment phase, although the dentist may allow the gums to heal for 2-3 months if a tooth needs to be extracted. A further 6 months are needed for bone grafts, followed by another 2 to 4 months to install the false tooth once the implant has been inserted.
