Digital implantology is becoming a new standard in modern dentistry, combining the precision of computer-based planning with minimally invasive procedures. In this interview, we explore how these technologies are applied in clinical practice in Turkey.
Dogan Sahin is a dentist who works with advanced digital dental implant technologies, where precision and predictability play a key role. He uses digital planning to pre-calculate implant placement based on the patient’s anatomy and to minimize surgical intervention. This approach makes the procedure more comfortable, reduces recovery time, and lowers potential risks.
The interview was conducted by Maria Chabdaeva, Head of the international company Beauty by Experts Medical, which assists patients in traveling to top plastic surgery specialists around the world.
About Dr. Dogan Sahin
- Good afternoon, Dr. Dogan. It is a pleasure to meet you.
Good afternoon, Maria. It is also a great pleasure for me.
- Please tell us a little about yourself and your professional experience.
My name is Dr. Dogan Sahin. I am a dental surgeon. I graduated from Istanbul University – the oldest and one of the largest medical faculties in Turkey. I received my degree in 2009, while I started my education in 2004. In 2011, I earned a master’s degree in digital implant surgery. I also apply these technologies in my clinic. I worked in Istanbul for five years, then moved to Antalya, and since 2016 I have been running my private practice in Antalya, Turkey.
- What trainings have you completed and what certificates do you and your team hold?
I have many certificates in aesthetic dentistry as well as in dental implantology. However, the most important ones for me are two certificates from Professor Alper at Istanbul University in bone augmentation and bone grafting, which I am very proud of.
I also trained in laminated veneers at Yeditepe University under Professor Esra, as well as in digital implantology. I even wrote a 96-page thesis on this topic. This method is also known as guided implant surgery or flapless surgery, using minimally invasive approaches.
Advanced Technologies in Practice
- Could you please explain in more detail the advanced technologies you use in your practice?
In our clinic, the most important advanced technology is guided dental implantology. We perform 3D CT scans for patients and use intraoral scanners. All this data is uploaded into specialized software, allowing us to plan the entire surgery digitally.
While patients are at home having tea or coffee, we determine everything: how many implants are needed, at what angle, and what size. Then we manufacture surgical guides. When patients come to the clinic, we place these guides and perform flapless implant surgery.
We also use piezosurgery with ultrasonic devices. This technique is less invasive and reduces pain and swelling after surgery.
- What are the benefits of digital implantology for patients?
Digital implantology is primarily about minimizing trauma to tissues. The less trauma we cause during surgery, the better and faster the body heals.
For example, in conventional surgery, a relatively large incision is often required. With digital implantology, this is significantly reduced. As a result, patients experience less pain, less swelling, and recover faster.
Piezosurgery and Bone Grafting in Implantology
- Are you referring to piezosurgery?
Yes, I am referring to guided implantology using piezosurgery. We usually apply this technique in bone grafting procedures.
If a patient has insufficient bone in the upper or lower jaw, we harvest autogenous bone from donor areas of the jaw. We mix this bone with artificial graft material in a 50/50 ratio and use it for reconstruction.
Before harvesting, we use piezosurgical instruments, which make the procedure less traumatic.
- From which area do you harvest the bone?
From the lower jaw, from the posterior region. In medical terms, this is the mandibular ramus or symphysis.
- Does the bone regenerate over time?
Yes, it does regenerate. We also place graft materials in the donor site. The advantage is that we use not only synthetic materials but also the patient’s own bone, which improves healing and integration.
- Can the graft fail to integrate?
Yes, complications can occur, as in any surgical procedure. It depends on both the surgeon and the patient’s condition.
However, with modern technologies, the success rate of implantology and bone regeneration is about 98%. The remaining 2% is usually related to patient factors such as smoking or uncontrolled diabetes.
Implant Selection and Digital Technologies
- Could you please explain in more detail about “All-on-4” and “All-on-6” implants? What does it mean for the patient, when is it indicated, and what is the difference between them?
The answer is actually in the question itself. All-on-4 means that everything is supported on four implants. And All-on-6 means six implants. How do we decide which treatment to use? In general, we prefer placing more implants to achieve better support, ideally six implants.
However, sometimes there is not enough bone available, and in such cases we consider the All-on-4 approach. In All-on-4 treatment, four implants are placed. Then we wait 3–4 months for osseointegration between the implant and bone. After healing — sometimes 3, sometimes 4 months, or up to 5 months in complex procedures like sinus lifting — we place the final prosthetic crowns, usually 12 units, and complete the treatment.
If there is sufficient bone, we always try to place more implants, because the more implants we use, the higher the success rate.
- Which implant brands do you prefer in your practice?
In fact, all implants are made from titanium grade 4 or 5. The difference lies in surface treatment technologies and brand-specific innovations. I prefer international brands such as Straumann Group, Osstem Group, and Astra Group. They also provide strong digital support, which is very important.
I do not say other brands are bad — it is like choosing between Mercedes and BMW. It is a matter of preference. My personal choice is these brands. But in most cases, they are all made from the same material — titanium.
- What do you mean by digital support?
For example, Straumann has digital implant libraries integrated into software systems. We can use guided implant surgery with branded digital templates. If a brand does not have a digital library, it cannot be used in such systems, and we must rely on traditional methods.
Today, most companies are moving toward digital technologies. Straumann is one of the leaders in this field. The Korean brand Osstem also performs very well in my clinic.
Implant choice is also influenced by financial factors. We do not want patients to be in a difficult financial situation. If premium brands are not affordable, local implants can also be used. However, I always advise patients to check the brand history and experience.
Certification and warranty are also very important. Patients should always ask whether a warranty certificate is provided.
- What warranty do implants and crowns have?
In most cases I work with, implants come with a lifetime warranty, provided the patient maintains proper hygiene and attends regular check-ups. Even in trauma cases, it may still apply, but hygiene and maintenance are essential.
Crowns usually have a 10-year warranty. However, we always aim for results that last much longer — sometimes even a lifetime.
After implant placement, we use an intraoral scanner and create a temporary prosthesis. The first 3–4 months are very important. Patients should avoid hard foods and be very careful. Once the implants integrate, they can return to normal eating habits.
- Do you show the final prosthetic result to the patient in advance?
Yes. This is part of digital dentistry. We use silicone impressions, intraoral scanning, facial photography, and digital smile design.
A digital model is created in the laboratory, and then temporary restorations are made. We try them in, show them to the patient in the mirror, and adjustments can be made — shape, size, and color.
After approval, we fabricate the final restorations in zirconia or Emax. This allows patients to see the final result even before the treatment is completed.
Treatment Duration and Stay at the Clinic
- How long should a patient stay for implant and crown placement? First and second visit?
For implant treatment, I can say that one implant replacement takes about 15 minutes, just like the “all-on-six” treatment. Six implants in the upper jaw and six in the lower jaw take a maximum of three to four hours. Full jaw implantation for both jaws is completed in about three hours, maximum four. We can finish the surgery in one day, but we do not want to send patients home without proper monitoring and checks. We also prepare fixed temporary acrylic restorations, and this requires a few days in the dental laboratory. One day is surgery, two to three days are laboratory work, so everything can be completed in about 4–5 days. However, ideally we prefer patients to stay in Antalya for 6 nights and 7 days for final control. After that, we discharge patients safely. For the first visit, 6–7 nights are enough. For the second visit after 3–4 months, another 6 nights are sufficient for permanent prosthesis fabrication.
- Even with sinus lift and bone grafting, is 6–7 days enough or does it extend the stay?
For the first visit, if surgery is performed, I usually recommend 8–9 days depending on the case.
Sinus lift can be done in two ways: closed and open. I prefer the less invasive closed sinus lift. If there is enough distance between the sinus floor and bone, we elevate it by 1–2 mm using osteotomes and place implants immediately. If there is no bone at all, then an open sinus lift is required with surgical access, bone grafting, and membranes. After such surgery, patients should not fly immediately because pressure changes may affect healing. We usually recommend staying 9–10 days with control X-rays before returning home.
- Can All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants be placed in one visit?
If there is sufficient bone or minor augmentation is needed, we can perform the surgery immediately. However, in 5–10% of patients these cases are rare. This is often related to age, long-term denture use, trauma, infections, or tumors. In such cases, jaw stabilization is required first, and implants are placed in a second stage.
- Are All-on-4 and All-on-6 for patients with no teeth at all or can they still have some?
Some patients still have teeth, but they are in a poor condition due to repeated treatments, crowns, or unsuccessful attempts. Sometimes teeth are present but mobile due to weak bone and gum support. We always perform X-rays and, if necessary, 3D CT scans.
Then we decide whether All-on-4 or All-on-6 is the best option. Usually, this is the final stage of dental treatment. We try to preserve natural roots whenever possible, but if this is not feasible and the patient cannot chew properly anymore, we proceed with implant-based rehabilitation.
- Which is better: a bridge on two implants or five implants?
I always try to place fewer implants. If I can solve the case with two implants, I prefer two. It depends on bite force and implant size.
It is like bridges: one type is like the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul — very strong and solid. The other is like small village bridges with multiple supports. If bone quality allows larger implants, we always prefer fewer implants. If not, we increase the number to three or four for better support.
Everything depends on the individual case. We always check X-rays and CT scans. Some patients send us their data in advance, and we can make an initial assessment, but final decisions are made after diagnostics.
- Thank you for the interesting conversation.
Thank you. Always happy to help.
How to Travel to Turkey for Digital Implantation with Dr. Dogan Sahin?
Digital implantation is a modern approach to dental implant placement using 3D diagnostics, computer planning, and surgical guides. This allows precise planning, less invasive surgery, and predictable results.
The company Beauty by Experts Medical works with verified clinics and experienced dentists. All medical centers are carefully selected, equipped with modern technology, and meet international standards.
To organize a trip for digital implant treatment, contact the coordinators of Beauty by Experts Medical. They will assist with documents, scans, and treatment planning.
Throughout the entire process, patients are supported by coordinators who handle travel, transfers, accommodation, and translation, ensuring a safe and comfortable treatment experience in Turkey.
