What are dental implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium, that is placed in the jawbone. Over the following months the bone grows tightly onto the implant surface, a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is fixed, a connector called an abutment is attached, and a crown, bridge or denture is fitted on top.
Because the implant is anchored in bone, it does not move when you eat or speak, and it helps preserve the jawbone, which tends to shrink where a tooth is missing. Unlike a conventional bridge, it does not rely on grinding down healthy neighbouring teeth.
Who are dental implants suitable for?
Teeth can be lost to decay, gum disease, heavy grinding or clenching, injury, or because they never developed. Implants are usually recommended for people who:
- Are over 18, so that the jaw has finished growing
- Have healthy gums, or have had gum disease treated first
- Have enough jawbone, or are willing to have a bone graft
- Are in good general health
- Prefer fixed teeth to removable dentures
Uncontrolled diabetes, some autoimmune conditions, Parkinson's disease, heavy smoking and active gum disease all raise the risk of infection or implant failure. These do not always rule treatment out, but your dentist will assess them carefully.
Treatment options
Single implant
One implant and one crown replace a single missing tooth.
Implant bridge
Two or more implants support a bridge that replaces several teeth in a row.
Full-arch or implant-supported dentures
A small number of implants, often four to six, hold a full set of teeth in one jaw. The teeth can be fixed in place or clip onto the implants.
How the treatment is done
Examination and planning
You send your dental history and any recent X-rays in advance. In Istanbul you have a full dental examination, a panoramic X-ray and, where needed, a 3D scan, plus blood tests to plan sedation if you want it. The scans give exact measurements for the implants.
Placing the implant
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic. The dental surgeon opens the gum, prepares a precise channel in the bone and places the implant. The gum is then closed with a few stitches. Each implant usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Healing
Over the next 2 to 4 months, and sometimes longer in the upper jaw or after a graft, the bone fuses with the implant. You may wear a temporary tooth or denture during this time.
Abutment and final teeth
On your second visit, the abutment is fitted, sometimes after a small procedure to uncover the implant, and impressions or scans are taken. Your permanent crown, bridge or denture is then made and fitted.
Recovery timeline
- First 48 hours
Some bleeding, soreness and swelling are normal. Cold packs and painkillers help.
- First week
Eat soft food, avoid hot and spicy dishes and do not smoke. Most people are back to normal activities within 2 to 5 days.
- Weeks 1–2
Swelling has gone down and any stitches dissolve or are removed.
- Months 2–6
The implant fuses with the bone. You return to Istanbul for your final teeth once the dentist confirms healing.
Aftercare
- Take your prescribed medication as directed
- Keep to soft or liquid food such as smoothies and yoghurt for about a week
- Rinse and spit gently, and avoid touching the area with your tongue or fingers
- Do not smoke for at least a week, and ideally stop for good
- Once healed, brush twice a day and clean around the implants with floss or interdental brushes
- See your dentist and hygienist regularly
Risks and side effects
Complications are uncommon and most can be treated. Your dentist will explain the risks before you start. They include:
- Infection around the implant
- Pain, swelling or bruising
- Damage to a nerve, causing numbness or tingling of the lip, chin or tongue
- Damage to neighbouring teeth or blood vessels
- Sinus problems if an upper implant extends into the sinus
- Failure of the implant to fuse with the bone, in which case it can usually be replaced after healing
- Gum inflammation and bone loss around the implant over the years if cleaning is poor
Results
Implant-supported teeth look natural, let you bite and chew with confidence and do not slip like dentures. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can last for many years, often for life, though crowns may need replacing as they wear.
Dental implants in Turkey: your trip
Before you fly
Send your dental history, any recent X-rays and photographs of your teeth. The team reviews them with the dentist and sends you a treatment plan. Most patients plan two trips a few months apart.
In Istanbul
A VIP driver collects you from the airport and takes you to your hotel and the clinic. A translator is with you for appointments, a companion can come at no extra cost, and tests and medication are included.
Back home
Your coordinator is available 24/7 on WhatsApp during healing and helps you arrange your return visit for the final teeth.
What the Dental Implants package includes
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Hospital and medical care
Your private hospital room, nursing care, pre-operative tests, consultations with your surgeon, anaesthesia, the operation itself and the medication you take home.
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VIP transfers
A private driver meets you at the airport and takes you between the airport, your hotel and the hospital.
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Translator and companion
A medical translator at the hospital, and a companion can travel with you at no extra cost.
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Meals and comfort
Daily meals for you and your companion throughout your stay.
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24/7 patient coordinator
A dedicated coordinator answers your questions before, during and after your trip, in your language.
Dental Implants FAQ
How many trips to Istanbul will I need?
Most patients need two visits. On the first, the implants are placed and you may receive temporary teeth. After about 3 to 6 months of healing at home, you return for the abutments and permanent crowns or bridge.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain during placement, and sedation is available if you are anxious. Afterwards there is usually some soreness and swelling for a few days, which simple painkillers control.
Can I have implants if I have lost jawbone?
Often, yes. A bone graft or sinus lift can rebuild the bone so that an implant has enough support. This may add healing time, and your dentist will explain the plan after reviewing your scan.
Am I too old for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit. What matters is your general health and the condition of your gums and jawbone. Implants are not placed before about 18, when the jaw has finished growing.
Can smokers have dental implants?
Smoking raises the risk of infection and of the implant failing to fuse with the bone. If you smoke, you will be advised to stop before treatment and for as long as possible afterwards.
How long do dental implants last?
With good cleaning and regular check-ups, the implant itself can last for many years and often for life. The crown on top may wear and need replacing after 10 to 15 years.
What can I eat after implant surgery?
Stick to soft, cool food such as yoghurt, soup and smoothies for about a week. Avoid hot, spicy and hard foods and chew on the other side until the area has settled.
