Types of Dental Implants You Should Know About

Posted on: 4 January 2024

Missing teeth can be more than just a cosmetic concern. Gaps in your mouth can lead to misaligned teeth or make it harder to eat and speak properly. Fortunately, dental implants offer a solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Here's a look at five types of dental implants you should know about and how to tell which one is right for you.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants, the prevailing choice for dental implants, serve as a reliable solution for replacing one or several teeth. Crafted from titanium, these implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Following a healing period, the abutment and crown are affixed, completing the restoration process.

Subperiosteal Implants

If you lack sufficient bone height for an endosteal implant, subperiosteal implants present a viable alternative. Rather than being positioned within the jawbone, these implants are placed beneath the gum line, resting atop the bone. A metal frame with posts is carefully inserted into the jaw, and following a healing period, prosthetic teeth are securely affixed to the posts. This approach offers a practical solution for individuals seeking dental implants with limited bone height.

All-on-4 Implants

All-on-4 implants are used to replace a whole set of teeth. This technique involves placing four implants into the jawbone, which is then used as a support to attach a full set of permanent teeth. This procedure is often recommended for patients who have significant decay, gum disease, or have lost teeth due to aging or injury.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are recommended for patients who don't have enough jawbone for traditional endosteal implants and whose sinus cavities are too large to support subperiosteal implants. Instead of placing the implant in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are secured to the zygomatic or cheekbones. This procedure requires a high level of skill and expertise.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are a good option for patients with a smaller jaw, where a traditional implant may not be able to fit. Mini dental implants are thinner than regular implants and are used to support a crown, bridge, or denture. This procedure is less invasive than traditional implant placement and requires less healing time.

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution to replace missing teeth. With different types to choose from, it's important to consult with your dentist to determine which option is best suited for your specific needs. Regardless of which option you choose, dental implants can help restore your smile and improve your oral health.

To learn more about dental implants, contact a dentist near you.

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When my three children were young, they were all excited to go to the dentist. The dentist's office was great fun with a large fish tank and a variety of puzzle toys in the waiting room. I liked the pediatric dental office so much that I jumped at the chance when I was offered a receptionist job. Many of the children who came to see the dentist were not nearly as happy as my children. Most kids were scared and anxious, and I learned fairly quickly that the children were worried because they had no idea what to expect. The dentist at the office provided me with a set of dental tools that I could show to the children. I explained how each of the devices worked. This eased the fears, and I started this blog so parents could share dental information with their children before dental visits.

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