Types of Dental Implants: Understanding Matters
Missing teeth can impact us in more ways than we think. People who have one or more missing teeth may find it harder to smile or even enjoy conversations. That is because of insecurities that can accompany missing teeth.
Even though it’s not their fault, people can’t help but feel that way. Additionally, some medical conditions can occur as well.
Processing food improperly due to missing teeth can also cause problems. That means chewing only on one side or not doing it enough.
Luckily, all of those issues are solvable by getting teeth implants at Chicago Dental Boutique. Tooth implants are the most effective way to replace missing teeth, and they can do wonders.
Not only do these implants help you minimize harmful chewing habits, thus allowing you to enjoy all kinds of foods, but they can help improve your confidence and overall mental health too. Everybody loves a confidence boost, and having the smile of your dreams will do that for you.
There isn’t just one type of dental implant. Different types of dental implants and materials are available because not every tooth loss is the same. That’s why you should familiarize yourself with the types of implants so that you and your implant dentist can decide on which one is the best for you.
Types of Implants and Available Implant Techniques
There are three most common types of dental implant systems.
They include:
- Endosteal implants
- Subperiosteal implants
- Zygomatic implants
Endosteal implants are the most frequently used type out of the three. The implanting procedure can take a few visits to the dentist, and they include screw-like implants that go directly into your jawbone. That means you have to have a healthy jawbone for this kind of implant. Fake teeth go on top of the screw-like posts, and that concludes the procedure.
Subperiosteal implants will probably be your primary choice if you’re not comfortable with implants that are drilled into your jawbone. This type of implant includes a metal frame that lays on top of the bone.
However, it’s still under the gums, which means they will need some time to heal and fuse. That is perfect if you don’t have enough jawbone for endosteal implants because this type doesn’t require it.
Lastly, zygomatic implants are rarely used nowadays, but they’re still a viable option. Your dentist will install this implant into your cheekbone, but the procedure is lengthy and complicated.
So you should only opt for this implant type if the former two don’t work for you for whatever reason.
Implant Techniques
Unfortunately, not every procedure is going to be smooth sailing. That’s why there are additional techniques that your dentist can use to help you out.
They are as follows:
- Bone augmentation
- Sinus lift
- Ridge expansion
If your jaw cannot support implants, or you don’t have enough of it, your dentist can perform bone augmentation. That means they will restore the bone or strengthen it using bone additives so that it’s ready for your implants of choice.
Missing upper back teeth can cause the bone below the sinus to start decaying. If that’s the case, you may receive a sinus lift, during which your dentist will add bone where necessary. Related.
Sometimes the only issue is the fact that your jaw may not have enough width. That is when dentists usually suggest a ridge expansion.
These techniques are helpful because not everyone can support implants. So it’s good to know that not all is lost if no implant type works for you for the time being.
Implant Materials
When it comes to implant types, they have to be sturdy and withstand possible cracks and decomposition. Back in the day, titanium was one of the main implant materials, but the options are now versatile.
However, these two material types are the most popular today:
- Titanium implants
- Zirconia implants
People claim that titanium implants are the best type of dental implant. They are long-lasting and affordable, and they enable the bone to grow next to them undisturbed.
On the other hand, zirconia implants are regarded as implants of the future. They’ve been rising in popularity ever since their discovery in the 1990s.
So whichever material you opt for, you won’t make a mistake. If you have any doubts, you can always ask a dentist for advice on the best option for you.
Mini Implants
Finally, if none of the above types and techniques work for you, there are more options. One of them is getting a mini implant. There are no different types of mini dental implants because they’re all small and made from one screw-like implant.
This dental implant type is great if you don’t have enough jawbone, time to visit the dentist, or cannot undergo surgery for whatever reason.
The installment of mini implants is quick and done in one visit to the dentist’s office under local anesthesia. It doesn’t even require stitches because they’re placed over the gums, unlike most implants that go under the gums.
Additionally, mini implants come at a fair price, so if you’re missing only one tooth, this could be your best option.
You Too Can Have a Beautiful Smile
So if you’ve lost one or several teeth for whatever reason – don’t worry. There are multiple tooth replacement options for you. With proper care, your implants will last you a long time.
Whether you opt for mini or regular dental implants, they will help you feel more confident and tackle poor chewing habits.
If you’re unsure how to choose the perfect type for you, weigh the pros and cons with your dentist. They will be able to tell you which an implant type is a great option considering your situation.
About The Author:
Gilbert D. Curtis, DDS, is an associate professor at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He teaches both in the undergraduate Doctor of Dental Medicine curriculum and the Advanced Education General Dentistry Residency.
