hammasimplantologia

Hammasimplantologia is the branch of dentistry that focuses on dental implants, devices surgically placed into the jawbone to support artificial teeth. It combines surgical placement with restorative prosthodontics, planning, placement, rehabilitation, and ongoing maintenance. The field aims to replace missing teeth with stable, functional, and aesthetically integrated solutions.

Planning begins with a comprehensive assessment of oral and systemic health, radiographic imaging such as CBCT, and evaluation of bone quantity and quality. Most implants are endosseous titanium or titanium alloy screws, though zirconia implants are also used in some cases. Procedures may include bone grafting or sinus lifting to achieve sufficient support. Implant placement is followed by a healing period for osseointegration before attaching prosthetic components.

Prosthetic restoration involves abutments, crowns, bridges, or overdentures anchored to the implants. Immediate or early loading can be performed in selected cases, depending on stability and occlusion. Materials used for crowns and bridges commonly include titanium-oxide frameworks with ceramic veneering, or all-ceramic designs. Maintenance and hygiene are crucial to prevent complications.

Outcomes in hammasimplantologia are generally favorable, with high long-term success rates in healthy patients. Complications can include peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, mechanical failures, or surgical injuries. Contraindications include poorly controlled systemic diseases, active infections, or insufficient bone quality without augmentation. The field emphasizes evidence-based protocols, individualized treatment planning, and lifelong follow-up to sustain implant health.