Different Types of Dental Implants

Did your dentist tell you that you'll require dental implants? Are you feeling overwhelmed because of all the options?

Maybe this will make the decision a little easier. Continue reading to learn about the many types of dental implants available and your alternatives.

What Are Implants

Dental implants are an option for replacing missing or damaged teeth. Titanium is commonly used in dental prostheses, but porcelain, metal, and zirconia dental implants are also available. They are inserted directly into the jawbone and function as an artificial tooth root. Once in place, a dental bridge or crown can be placed on the implant, resulting in an artificial tooth that looks and feels identical to your original teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

There are three common forms of dental implants

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most popular type of dental implant. They are appropriate for most patients but require a strong, healthy jawbone for the post to fuse to.

They are temporary posts styled like screws. They are inserted into the jaw, where the fake teeth are inserted.

After the operation, the teeth take some time to heal, fuse, and form a fortress. Once healed, the fake teeth can be fitted to the post to match the neighboring teeth.

If you dislike having anything implanted in your jawbone, you may prefer the second most common implant.

Subperiosteal Implants

Another form of dental implant is a subperiosteal implant. This is the primary alternative to endosteal implants.

Instead of being embedded in the jawbone, subperiosteal implants sit on top of the bone but remain beneath the gum.

A metal frame is inserted beneath the gum, with a post attached. The gum then heals around the frame, keeping it in place. The fake teeth are attached to the gum poles.

This method is only done if the patient does not have enough jawbone to support an implant or if the patient does not choose to undergo extensive oral surgery to add bone to the area.

If this applies to you, perhaps the next implant will be more suitable.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are the most uncommon type of dental implant available to you. It is the most complex operation and should only be performed if there is insufficient jawbone for an Endosteal implant.

The implant is implanted in the patient's cheekbone, not the jawbone.

Now that you've learned about the three types of implants, you may be curious about implant techniques.

3D Imaging

Again, just like in Star Trek, technology has advanced to the point that your dentist can see a 3D representation of your jaw.

By examining this program, your dentist can determine the best course of action for your implant treatment, which can save money and reduce recovery time.

Immediate load Dental Implants

This form of dental implant is similar to adding a spare tire to your car, except for teeth.

It enables the temporary installation of a tooth on the same day as the implant insertion.

This may be an option for you if you have adequate bone and an implant that is strong enough to sustain the placement and pressure of the temporary tooth.

Mini Dental Implants

These are very narrow implants, the size of a toothpick. Their principal function is to support a lower denture. Mini dental implants are not as creative as the others, but they are still a viable choice to consider.

All-On-4

This option is for installing a whole set of top or bottom replacement teeth.

Four dental implants are inserted into inaccessible bone, eliminating the requirement for bone grafting. A temporary set of replacement teeth can be inserted the same day.

The drawback is that you will need to follow a particular diet while the tissue heals and the implants link with the bone.

After only 6 months, a permanent set of replacement teeth is inserted, and you can resume your normal diet.

Find Your Perfect Smile

Finding your ideal grin should not be difficult. Most cosmetic dentistry clinics can offer several dental implant types to choose from. Your dentist will work closely with you to identify the best option for you.