Dental implants have become a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. There are many different types of dental implants, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. This makes choosing dental implants seem like a daunting task.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the most common types of dental implants and how dental implant placement works. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of each type so that you can decide which implant is right for you.
So, if you’re considering getting a dental implant, keep reading!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and are fast becoming the go-to choice among many other teeth replacement options. The titanium implant is compatible with the human body. It is placed in the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time. This provides a strong foundation for artificial teeth, which are then placed on top of the implants.
Also Read :- Surprising benefits of Dentures
Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth. They are strong and durable and can last decades or longer with proper care. In fact, implants are known to securely position the teeth, preventing slippage even when there’s significant bone loss and periodontal disease (gum disease). Many people who get dental implants say they feel and look like their natural teeth.
What Comprises a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are teeth replacements that are surgically inserted into the jaw bone to support a dental prosthesis.
The implant is made up of three parts:
- The implant post is a titanium screw that is inserted into the jaw bone to act as a replacement for the natural tooth root. It will serve as the anchor for the rest of the dental implant.
- The abutment post is a small metal connector piece used to attach the metal post to the implant crown.
- The dental prosthesis is what will be visible above your gums and will look just like a natural tooth. The prosthetic tooth could either be a dental crown, bridge, or dentures. They could either be made from ceramic or porcelain that is custom-made to match the patient’s natural teeth.
What Are the Three Different Types of Dental Implants?
There are three different types of implants, each of which is suited for different situations:
- Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant. It typically consists of a metal screw or post and is placed directly into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once in place, the bone grows around the implant, providing a strong and sturdy foundation for artificial teeth. These are ideal for patients with sufficient bones to support an implant. - Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum tissue but on top of the jawbone. They are usually used for patients who have thin natural jawbones that cannot support endosteal implants and who do not want to undergo a bone grafting procedure. The metal frame of a subperiosteal implant is anchored onto the natural bone, and artificial teeth are attached to the frame. - Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are an option for patients who have lost all their teeth in the upper jaw. This type of implant is placed in the cheekbone and is anchored to the upper jawbone. Zygomatic implants provide support for a full set or arch of artificial teeth.
Dental implants offer many benefits, including improved appearance, comfort, and chewing ability. If you are considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about which type of implant is right for you.
What Are Single Implants?
As the name suggests, single implants are single replacement teeth implanted into the jawbone. They are placed in spaces where one tooth is missing.
Single-tooth dental implants are a good option for people who have lost a tooth due to an injury or infection, and it helps to fill in the gaps in your smile. The implant is placed in the healthy jawbone, and a dental prosthetic (a single crown) is attached to the implant.
One of the benefits of choosing a single-tooth dental implant is that it mimics the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. Compared to other options, such as bridges or dentures, a single implant is stable, secure, and more durable.
What Are Implant Bridges?
An implant bridge is another dental implant option. It is exactly what it sounds like – a pontic (false tooth) that is attached to dental implants on either side. This is a good option for people who have lost multiple teeth in a row, as it helps to restore your smile and prevent your teeth from shifting.
The benefits of implant-supported bridges include that they’re longer-lasting than traditional bridges and don’t strain your remaining teeth. They also don’t require as much maintenance and look more natural than traditional bridges.
What Are Implant-Retained and Implant-Supported Dentures?
When most people think of dentures, they picture a row of false teeth sitting on top of the gums. However, teeth implants are becoming increasingly popular as a way to provide a more secure and comfortable fit for dentures.
The main difference between implant-retained and supported dentures is the way the number of implants used. With an implant-retained denture, 2-4 implants are used to secure the denture to the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, use 6 or more implants to hold up a full upper or lower denture set.
Implant-retained and implant-supported dentures are more secure and stable than traditional dentures, making it easier to eat and speak. They also help to preserve bone mass in the jaw and prevent the facial muscles from sagging, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
If you are considering dental implants, talk to a dental implant expert about whether implant-retained or implant-supported dentures are right for you.
Which Implant Is Right for Me?
When choosing dental implants, there are a few things to consider.
The first is your budget. Teeth implants can be expensive, so it’s important to compare prices before deciding.
The second is the number of missing teeth. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, or they can be used to support a full set of dentures.
The third is your lifestyle. If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, you may need a different type of implant than someone who doesn’t.
The fourth is the state of your jaw bone. If you have poor bone density, you’ll most likely need a bone augmentation procedure.
And finally, it’s important to consult with a qualified implant dentist to verify if you’re a good candidate and for higher chances of success of the dental implant process.
Ultimately, the type of implant that is right for you will depend on your needs and preferences. But with so many high-quality options available today, there’s sure to be an implant that’s suited for you. Talk to a dental professional or oral surgeon about your implant concerns.
Final Thoughts
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right teeth implant. It’s important to assess your lifestyle, budget, and level of comfort with the dental procedure before deciding. By researching and consulting with an experienced implant dentist, you can make an informed decision about which type of teeth implant is right for you.
If you’re considering teeth implants, we encourage you to book an appointment through our website or call Ashburton Dental Centre today. Our team of experienced professionals will be happy to answer any questions and help you make the right decision for your needs. Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental implants offer a long-lasting, low-maintenance option for replacing teeth. Anyone with missing teeth, or those who need to replace a tooth or multiple teeth due to decay or trauma, may be candidates for dental implants. This is because missing teeth can lead to bone loss over time.
The cost of a dental implant can vary significantly depending on the individual case, type of implant and other factors. In general, single-tooth implants cost between $5,000 and $7,000. This includes the surgical procedure, abutment, and crown.
Despite the high upfront cost, many patients feel dental implants are worth the investment. With special care, they can last a lifetime.
Many people are unsure if they can use their health fund for dental implants, and the answer is it depends on your particular health fund.
Some health funds will cover a certain percentage of the cost of dental implants, while others will not cover them at all. It’s always recommended to check with your health fund to see what their policy is regarding dental implants.
Even if your health fund does not cover the full cost of dental implants, there are still ways to finance them so that you can get the smile you’ve always wanted. Talk to your implant dentist about financing options to get the dental implants you need.
While dental implants can be more expensive than other replacement tooth options, they offer several advantages.
First, dental implants are designed to last for a long period of time. In fact, implant success rate is high. Other options, like removable dentures or conventional bridges, may need to be replaced every few years.
Second, dental implants are much more natural-looking and feeling than other options. They resemble and function like real teeth, so you can feel confident about your smile and eat your favourite foods without worry.
Finally, dental implants can help preserve bone in the jaw and promote good oral hygiene, which can help prevent further dental problems.
Like any other dental surgery, the implant procedure comes with risks, such as:
- Nerve damage
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Infection
- Dental implant failure
- Allergic reaction to the metal implant
It also requires a longer recovery time compared to other teeth replacement options. However, most dental patients feel that the advantages and benefits of dental implant technology far outweigh these risks.
So if you’re considering dental implant treatment, it’s worth asking your dentist whether dental implant surgery is right for you. In most cases, the benefits outweigh the costs, making dental implants a great investment in your long-term oral health.
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