As you consider dental implant services, it’s important to know the types available and which one is right for you. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed into the jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are a popular and effective way to restore missing teeth and improve your smile. Here’s what to know about the different types of dental implants and the benefits of each.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. Knowing more about them can help you select the best option for your smile.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. Made of titanium, prosthodontists place them directly into the jawbone through surgery. Shaped like small screws, prosthodontists recommend these implants to patients with jawbones that can support them.
Endosteal implants are available in two types: cylinder and screw. Cylinder implants fit into the jawbone using a drill and are ideal for patients with narrow jawbones. Prosthodontists insert screw implants into the jawbone similarly to cylinder implants. However, screw implants are appropriate when the jawbone is solid and stronger.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are recommended for patients who do not have jawbone mass or strength to support the implant. Instead of being placed directly into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are inserted under the gums but above the jawbone. This allows the implant to sit on the jawbone and provide enough support for the artificial tooth. Subperiosteal implants are typically only recommended for patients who cannot undergo bone grafting.
Additional Dental Implant Options
There are several choices available when it comes to dental implants. The following are some of the most common dental implant options.
Single-Tooth Implants
Single-tooth implants are appropriate when you only need to replace one missing tooth. Replacing missing teeth is important, as this can lead to changes in your bite and other dental problems. Prosthodontists place these implants into the jawbone before topping them with crowns to replace missing teeth.
Multiple-Tooth Implants
Multiple-tooth implants are a good choice to replace several missing teeth. This type of implant involves placing several implants into the jawbone and attaching a bridge to the implants to replace the missing teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures replace a full arch of missing teeth. This type of implant involves placing several implants into the jawbone and attaching a denture to the implants to replace the missing teeth. Implant-supported dentures provide a more stable fit than traditional dentures and can help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many advantages compared to other tooth replacement options. Some of the benefits of dental implants include:
- Improved appearance – Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, making them an ideal option for improving the appearance of your smile.
- Improved function – Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
- Long-lasting – Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option, with most implants lasting for many years with proper care.
- Prevents bone loss – Dental implants can help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur when teeth are missing.
Dental implants can go a long way toward improving the appearance and function of your smile. Find out more about dental implant types by contacting a prosthodontist near you.
Learn More About Dental Implant Types at Local Start Dental
If you are in the Durham, NC area and need dental implants, consider Local Start Dental. Our surgical suite provides dentures, extractions, dental implants, partial dentures, and overdentures to help individuals restore their smiles. Contact us today at 919.766.2547 or online to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment.
