Types of Dental Implants

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent or temporary replacements for a missing tooth or teeth. It is a type of cosmetic surgery performed by dentist. Implants can be made out of various materials, but titanium is most commonly used. The artificial tooth or teeth are designed to look, feel and function like a person’s natural teeth. Implants allow the user to eat, smile and live life as they usually would.

There are two main forms of dental implants. Which are Endosteal Implants and Subperiosteal Implants.

  • Endosteal Implants

These are implants which are placed into the jawbone surgically. When the bone heals a crown is then placed on top of it. This is a common type of procedure done on people today. It is natural looking and long lasting

  • Subperiosteal Implants

In contrast, subperiosteal implants are on top of the bone. The metal frame and posts are placed on the jawbone. When it heals the frame will be fixed to the bone and then a crown can be attached. This procedure is done on people who cannot get a bone graft.

Here are some advantages of having Implants:

  • More natural looking than dentures
  • Long lasting
  • Better oral health

Types of Dental Implants:

Conventional Implants

This method can be used to replace one or multiple teeth. The implant is similar in size to a real tooth. It is bolted into the jawline with metal screws placed into the bone. To install more than one tooth, the implant is made larger. Then the dentist can add as many teeth as desired.

Fixed Bridgework

Fixed bridgework are bridges that are supported by implants. Regular bridges use the surrounding teeth as support. Being supported by implants allow the fixed bridge to be more stable and secure. The implant for the fixed bridge can be modified to act as support for removable bridges as well.

Over-Dentures

The American Dental Association consider this type implant as standard care for people who have lost all of their teeth or all on a single jawline. When people wear traditional dentures, it causes resorption. That’s when the denture presses on the gum and bone causing bone loss.

Standard or mini implants are used to stabilize the denture and to raise it above the gumline. This preserve and protects the bone underneath.

Tooth Movement

Implants can be used as an anchor to secure teeth and to stop them from moving too much. Either standard, mini or micro implants can be used. This method allows for more efficient tooth movement. The dental implant can be used as an anchor point for braces to help teeth align properly.