According to multiple studies, about 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, while approximately 40 million are missing all of their teeth. Tooth loss has many causes, including injury or trauma, gum disease, and cavities.
If you are one of those who have a missing tooth or teeth, you are likely exploring replacement options. While there are many, one of the most popular is dental implantation.
Dental implants are a long-term solution to the problem of missing teeth. However, before you book a consultation with a trusted implant dentist, you might find it helpful to know more about dental implants and their types. Having a basic understanding of the most common dental implant options will help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
This article gives a quick rundown of what dental implants are and the most common implant types that dental professionals recommend to their patients.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are one of the best tooth replacement options available to patients. During dental implant surgery, a tooth root is replaced with a metal post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This post or implant is allowed to bond and integrate into the jawbone before the crown or bridge is added.
Dental implants replicate the look and function of natural teeth. Unlike dentures, they are permanent.
Some of the reasons behind the popularity of dental implants is their durability and positive long-term impact on dental health. Implants help keep the patient’s jaw shape intact and can last for decades with proper care.
The Most Common Types of Dental Implants
Thanks to advancements in dental technology, patients now have more choices than ever when it comes to teeth replacement. The following are some of the most common dental implant methods.
Endosteal implants
Endosteal implants have become the most popular dental implant today due to the straightforward procedure involved. The implant’s titanium base is the key element to the success of the entire implant.
Once the dentist has determined you’re a good candidate for endosteal implants, they will begin removing damaged parts of your teeth and perform bone grafting. The dentist will insert the implant and place a temporary one.
Once the metal implant has integrated into the jawbone and the base is secure, the temporary dental prosthesis that was placed to protect the implant will be replaced with a permanent one.
Subperiosteal implants
These are often recommended to patients who want to enjoy the benefits of a functional implant but don’t have enough jawbone height to support an endosteal implant properly.
The implant is placed under the gums and on or above the jawbone. Its exposed metallic components are then used to hold the crown in place. While it may not offer the same stability as endosteal implants due to its lack of connection to the jawbone, a subperiosteal implant is an excellent option for those who would otherwise not be a good candidate for endosteal implants.
Implant-supported bridges
If you have a considerable number of missing teeth in one specific area, your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge. With this option, the patient must undergo two separate procedures.
The first one involves implant surgery. Implants will be placed on either side of the gap in the patient’s smile. Once the implants have healed, the second procedure can be performed. This one involves connecting a bridge to the implants. Note that the number of implants needed depends on the size of the bridge required to bridge the gap.
All-on-4 dental implants
There are cases where a patient lost so many teeth that a bridge won’t be enough to restore your mouth’s appearance and function. All-on-4 implants help patients that want to restore the teeth on their upper or lower jaw.
Multiple implants are installed throughout the patient’s jaw, and a complete set of 10 to 14 teeth are then placed. This treatment will take multiple appointments, and the recovery period can take weeks to months, but the benefits of having a complete set of teeth will easily outweigh the inconveniences that you may experience.
Get the Best Dental Implants for Your Needs
These are only some of the most common dental implants that you can get for your oral health. While implant surgery and recovery may be a lengthy process, the benefits you get from a restored mouth make them a worthwhile investment.
To help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for implants, identify the best implants for your needs, and learn more about the pros of cons of dental implants, consult a trusted and experienced dentist.
Rod W. Gore DDS has served families in Scottsdale, AZ and surrounding areas for more than three decades. His areas of focus include restorative dentistry. Dr. Gore and his team also provide a wide range of preventive and cosmetic dentistry services to help improve and mental your dental health.
To explore your teeth replacement options, book an appointment today.