Implant-supported prostheses are prostheses that take their support from implants placed in the jawbone rather than from the neighbouring teeth. They may be considered where a single tooth, several teeth or all of the teeth are missing. Which prosthesis type is suitable is determined by the dentist according to the number of implants, the condition of the bone and the bite relationship.
Prosthesis types
- Single crown: a crown placed on one implant in the area of a single missing tooth.
- Implant-supported bridge: a fixed prosthesis carried by two or more implants where several adjacent teeth are missing.
- Removable prosthesis with attachments: a prosthesis that the patient can remove, attached to the implants by ball or bar attachments.
- Fixed full-arch prosthesis: a prosthesis carried by several implants where all of the teeth in an arch are missing.
Findings evaluated when choosing
The number of implants that can be placed, the height and thickness of the bone, gum health, the bite relationship, any clenching habit and the patient’s ability to maintain oral hygiene are all evaluated. The plan is shared with the patient after examination and radiographic evaluation.
How the treatment proceeds
- Examination, radiographic evaluation and planning
- Placement of the implants and the healing period
- Impression taking and preparation of the prosthesis in the laboratory
- Trial fitting and adjustment of the bite
- Delivery of the prosthesis and instructions on its use
- Follow-up appointments at the intervals set by the dentist
Care and follow-up
Cleaning around implant-supported prostheses is important for the health of the surrounding tissues. Interdental brushes, floss suitable for prostheses and, where recommended by the dentist, an irrigation device may be used. Removable prostheses should be cleaned outside the mouth as instructed. The prosthesis and the tissues around the implants are checked at the appointments set by the dentist.
When teeth are missing in only part of the jaw
Implant supported restorations are not limited to jaws with no remaining teeth. Where a group of teeth is missing on one side, implants may be placed at selected positions and the gap restored without involving the healthy teeth next to it. The alternative, a conventional bridge, requires preparing those neighbouring teeth. Which route is suitable depends on the condition of the adjacent teeth, bone volume at the site and the bite relationship, and is decided after examination and radiographic assessment.
The healing period and temporary restorations
Between implant placement and the final restoration there is a healing interval during which the implant integrates with the bone. The length of this interval varies with the site and with whether grafting was carried out. In many cases a temporary restoration can be fitted so that appearance and chewing are maintained while healing continues. Whether a temporary can be used, and what it may be loaded with, is decided by the dentist rather than assumed in advance.
Speech and eating in the first weeks
Differences in speech and in the way food feels are commonly reported in the first days after a new restoration is fitted, particularly with removable designs that cover part of the palate. Starting with softer foods, cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing on both sides helps the adjustment period. Reading aloud for short periods is often suggested while speech adapts. If a specific point continues to rub or catch, the clinic should be contacted rather than waiting for the next appointment.
Components that wear and are renewed
Removable designs attach to the implants through retaining components, and those components wear with use. When retention loosens, the part is renewed rather than the whole restoration being remade. Screws in fixed designs are also checked at review appointments. This is expected maintenance, not a fault, and the interval differs from patient to patient depending on how the restoration is used and cleaned.
If an implant is lost at a later stage
An implant can be lost years after placement, most often where inflammation around it has progressed unnoticed. What happens next depends on how many implants carried the restoration and on the condition of the bone at that site. In some cases the existing restoration can be adapted; in others the site is allowed to heal before a new implant is considered. Regular review is the reason such situations are usually noticed early.
Arranging treatment from abroad
An implant supported restoration involves a surgical stage, a healing interval and a prosthetic stage, so it is rarely completed in one visit. Records, imaging and the surgical stage may be handled in a first period, and impressions and fitting after healing. Please contact the clinic before travel so that the number of visits and the time needed in Eskisehir can be discussed against your own schedule.
Frequently asked questions
How many implants are needed
The number depends on the prosthesis type planned, the condition of the bone and the area to be restored. It is determined after radiographic evaluation.
How does it differ from a conventional prosthesis
A conventional bridge takes its support from the neighbouring teeth, whereas an implant-supported prosthesis takes its support from the implants. Which option is suitable depends on the condition of the neighbouring teeth and of the bone.
How long does the prosthesis last
The length of service varies according to oral hygiene habits, the bite relationship, any clenching habit and attendance at check-ups. Parts of the prosthesis may require renewal over time; this is followed up by the dentist. For details about the surgical stage see our page on implant treatment.
If you have a question about this subject, you can reach our clinic.
The information on this page is for general information purposes only and does not replace an examination by a dentist. Diagnosis and treatment planning are carried out by the dentist following an intraoral examination and, where considered necessary, radiographic evaluation.
Related content
Related pages
- Our dental treatments — an overview of the treatments carried out at our clinic.
- Our dentists — the dentists working at our clinic.
- Contact us — appointment and directions.
You can reach our clinic for information and appointments.
Serdent Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Polikliniği
Yenibağlar Mah. Fabrikalar Sok. No: 12/A, Tepebaşı / Eskişehir
Mon–Sat 09:30 – 20:30, Sun 10:00 – 20:30