Dental implants
A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth with a small titanium post that bonds with the jawbone. Once healed, it supports a crown, a bridge or a full arch of fixed teeth.
Overview
A dental implant is a titanium post placed in the jawbone under local anaesthetic to replace a missing tooth root. After a healing period of usually three to six months, while the implant bonds with the bone, a crown or bridge is fitted on top. At Rubi Smile, implant treatment normally involves two visits and starts with X-rays or a 3D scan to check that there is enough healthy bone.
- Healing period
- Usually 3–6 months
- Visits to Antalya
- Usually two
- Anaesthesia
- Local anaesthetic
- Implant material
- Titanium
When a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it gradually shrinks and neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap. A dental implant replaces the root as well as the visible tooth, which helps preserve bone and keeps neighbouring teeth in place.
Implants can replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth, or support a full arch of teeth with techniques such as All-on-4 and All-on-6. The crown on top is designed to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth.
Is it right for you?
Often suitable when
- You are missing one or more teeth
- You want a fixed replacement rather than a removable denture
- You have enough healthy jawbone, or are suitable for bone grafting
- Your gums are healthy, or gum disease can be treated first
- You are in generally good health and can attend two visits
Another option may be better when
- You smoke heavily and cannot stop around the time of surgery
- You have uncontrolled diabetes or certain other medical conditions
- You take medicines that affect bone healing, such as some osteoporosis drugs
- Bone loss is severe and grafting is not suitable
- A bridge or partial denture better suits your situation or budget
How the treatment works
The implant itself is a small screw-shaped post made of titanium, a material that bone grows onto in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is firmly integrated, a connecting part (abutment) is attached and the final crown or bridge is fixed on top.
Treatment is normally carried out in two phases. In the first visit the implant is placed under local anaesthetic. After a healing period of usually three to six months, you return for the final teeth. In some cases a temporary tooth can be fitted during healing; your dentist will tell you whether this is possible.
Assessment and planning
Planning begins with X-rays or a 3D scan to measure the height and width of the bone and locate structures such as nerves and sinuses. We review your medical history and medicines, check your gums and the remaining teeth, and discuss the type of restoration that suits you.
If there is not enough bone, procedures such as bone grafting may be needed, which can extend the timeline. We explain this before you commit.
Treatment stages
Assessment and 3D planning
Examination, X-rays or 3D scan, medical history review and a written plan.
Implant placement
The implant is placed in the jawbone under local anaesthetic. Stitches may be used.
Healing
Usually three to six months while the implant bonds with the bone. You can return home during this time.
Final restoration
On your second visit, impressions or scans are taken and the final crown or bridge is fitted.
Review and maintenance
We check your bite and cleaning, and explain long-term care and check-ups.
Materials and techniques
Implants are made of titanium. Crowns on implants are usually made of zirconia or porcelain, chosen for strength and appearance.
Recovery and aftercare
After placement, some swelling, bruising and discomfort for a few days is normal. Most patients manage with standard pain relief. You will receive written instructions on cleaning, rinsing, food and medication.
- Eat soft foods for the first days and avoid chewing on the implant site
- Do not smoke; smoking increases the risk of implant failure
- Keep the area clean as instructed and attend your follow-up
- Contact us if pain or swelling increases after the third day
Risks and limitations
Implant treatment is well established, but it is surgery and carries risks that we discuss with you:
- Infection around the implant
- The implant not integrating with the bone and needing to be removed
- Temporary or, rarely, lasting numbness if a nerve is affected
- Sinus complications with upper jaw implants
- Inflammation of the gums and bone around the implant (peri-implantitis) in later years
- Mechanical problems such as a loose screw or chipped crown
Longevity and maintenance
With good oral hygiene, regular check-ups and not smoking, implants can last for many years and often for decades. The crown on top may need replacing over time due to wear. Daily cleaning around implants is essential, as gum disease can affect implants just as it affects natural teeth.
What affects the cost
The cost of implant treatment depends on:
- The number of implants needed
- Whether bone grafting or sinus procedures are required
- The type of restoration: single crown, bridge or full arch
- The crown material
- Imaging and any temporary teeth during healing
We do not publish fixed prices because every plan is different. After reviewing your X-rays or scans, we send a written, itemised quote.
Compared with alternatives
| Option | Fixed or removable | Effect on neighbouring teeth | Preserves bone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental implant | Fixed | None | Yes |
| Bridge | Fixed | Neighbouring teeth are prepared for crowns | No |
| Partial denture | Removable | May rest on neighbouring teeth | No |
The best option depends on your bone, gums, neighbouring teeth and preferences.
If you are travelling to us
Plan for two trips: the first for implant placement (usually a few days), the second for the final teeth after about three to six months. Your dentist will advise when it is safe to fly after surgery.
Between visits, if you notice anything unusual, contact us with a description and photos. Send any recent X-rays before your first visit so we can plan more accurately.
Frequently asked questions
Does implant surgery hurt?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during it. Afterwards some discomfort and swelling is normal for a few days and is usually manageable with standard pain relief.
How long do I need to stay in Antalya?
Usually a few days for implant placement, and a few days for the final teeth on the second visit. Your written plan gives the exact number of days.
Can I get my new teeth on the same day?
In some cases a temporary restoration can be fitted soon after placement, but the final teeth are usually fitted after healing. Whether immediate loading is possible depends on bone quality and stability.
Am I too old for implants?
Age alone is rarely the deciding factor. General health, bone quality and medicines are more important. We assess this individually.
What if I do not have enough bone?
Bone grafting or alternative techniques may help. We can only advise after reviewing a 3D scan.
Written by the Rubi Smile patient team to explain treatment options in plain language. Clinical review by a Rubi Smile dentist is scheduled before publication. Pending clinical review
Related treatments
All-on-4
A fixed full arch of teeth on four implants, often possible with less bone.
All-on-6
A full arch of fixed teeth on six implants, for patients missing most or all teeth in a jaw.
Dental Crowns
A custom cap that restores the shape, strength and appearance of a damaged tooth.
Start with a conversation, not a commitment.
Send us your questions and, if you have them, recent X-rays or photos. A dentist reviews your case and our coordinators explain the options, the likely timeline and the cost before you plan any travel.