Dental Implants

Dental implants are a modern solution for replacing missing teeth. They function as artificial roots, on which a crown, bridge or other prosthetic restoration can be supported.

What implant treatment includes

Dental implant treatment includes clinical and radiographic assessment, evaluation of bone quantity and quality, planning of implant position and surgical placement under local anaesthesia.

After placement, a healing period follows so that the implant can integrate with the bone. When healing is complete, the final prosthetic restoration is placed by the patient’s dentist. Regular follow-up is essential for maintaining the result long term.

implant placed in the mouth for restoration of a missing tooth.

crown on dental implant replaces missing front tooth — implant placed in the mouth for restoration of a missing tooth

What are dental implants?

Dental implants were first used in Sweden in the mid-1960s. They have a screw-like shape and act as substitutes for the root of a tooth.

A prosthetic restoration, such as a crown or bridge, is supported on the implant. This restores both the appearance and the function of the missing tooth.

Implants are made of titanium. Titanium has been used for many years in Orthopaedics and is a biocompatible material, meaning that the body does not reject it as a foreign object.

Implant placement step by step

1. Implant placement

The implants are placed in the jawbone by the periodontist under local anaesthesia. The procedure is painless and, immediately afterwards, the patient can usually return to normal daily activities.

2. Integration period

After surgery, the implants are left to integrate with the bone. This period lasts about 8 weeks, depending on the case and the quality of the bone.

3. Placement of the prosthetic restoration

When the bone is ready to receive chewing forces, the final prosthetic restoration is placed on the implant by the patient’s dentist.

4. Regular follow-up

The patient should visit the periodontist once a year, so that the health of the tissues around the implants and the stability of the result can be checked.

Advantages of dental implants

Aesthetic restoration

Implants look like natural teeth and can provide a highly natural aesthetic result.

Conservative treatment

Healthy neighbouring teeth do not need to be prepared in order to place bridges. This helps preserve the natural teeth.

High success rate

It is a proven treatment that has been used for decades. In our clinic, the success rate reaches 99%, one of the highest rates internationally.

Functional restoration

The patient can speak and eat comfortably. Implants feel like natural teeth and provide stability during chewing.

Disadvantages and limitations of dental implants

Treatment duration

The total treatment time is longer than in traditional dentistry because time is needed for the implant to integrate with the bone.

Treatment cost

Due to the technology, materials and surgical procedure required, the cost of implants is higher compared with other treatment options.

Patient selection

People with poor oral hygiene or serious health problems may not be suitable candidates for implants. There must also be enough bone in the area of the jaw where the implant will be placed.

Smoking

Smokers have lower success rates with this method. For this reason, smoking is taken seriously into account during treatment planning.

Testimonials

Patient experiences with dental implants

Patients who restored chewing comfort, aesthetics and confidence with dental implants.

“Getting implants was the best thing I could have done for myself. I place great importance on the appearance and hygiene of my teeth. My decision to go through with it was immediate, and the result has truly justified my choice.”

Charoula Pompodaki, Heraklion

“I have had two implants for three years now. I was hesitant at first, but Mr. Sfakianakis's advice convinced me to say yes. My mouth's aesthetics have changed, and my confidence has grown along with it. In all these years, I haven't faced a single problem.”

Adamantia Foiniki, Voutes

“I wholeheartedly recommend implants as an immediate solution. They are practical and look just like real teeth. The placement was painless and the appearance is flawless.”

Thalia Zervaki, Kato Gouves

Computer-guided implant placement

First, using specialized software (BlueSky Plan), the implant is placed “virtually” in a three-dimensional model of the patient’s jaw created from a CT scan.

Then, using a precision guide that we “print” on a 3D printer, we place the implant with absolute accuracy and safety for the patient. In our clinic, we have been using this method since 2012.