Your Guide to Different Kinds of Dental Implants

Choosing to invest in dental implants is no minor decision. The procedure requires small surgeries, and the overall process can last months, requiring dedication to restoring oral health and a full smile. The results, however, are well worth the time and effort for most patients.

Before deciding to commit, patients first need to understand the different options for implants and what each specifically addresses in the mouth. While implants are mainly used to replace missing teeth, some persons may benefit from single implants while others do better with implant-retained dentures. The main forms of implants can be separated into two basic types, followed by three different kinds of possible appliances.

Two basic types

The most critical factor in receiving dental implants lies in the jawbone. If someone has a weaker jawbone that is not healthy enough to withstand the surgery and pressure involved with implants, then another implant-like option may need to be considered.

Endosteal

An endosteal implant is the most common type of procedure. The process involves drilling holes for the implant into the patient’s jawbone and inserting metal posts. The bone must then heal completely around the post, creating a functional connection with it to mimic a natural tooth root. For this procedure to succeed, the jawbone must be robust and capable of complete healing.

Subperiosteal

Even after bone grafting, some patients do not have the structural thickness or strength in the jawbone to support endosteal implants. Instead, these individuals can receive subperiosteal implants. In these cases, the metal posts are secured within the gums but on top of the bone.

Three main endosteal implants

Patients go through a number of exams and assessments to make sure the jawbone can undergo surgery without adverse effects. Once candidacy is confirmed, there are three options to consider. The one a patient chooses mainly depends on how many teeth are missing in the mouth.

Single implant

As it implies, single dental implants replace one missing tooth. The gap may be anywhere in the mouth, and one post is secured in the place of the former natural root. Once the jawbone has healed from the placement and bonded to the post, an abutment is attached above the gumline. Lastly, the crown is secured to the abutment, and the gap is filled.

Bridge implant

Implant-supported bridges are necessary when a patient is missing a number of teeth in a row. Instead of drilling many holes in the jawbone for numerous implants, only two implants are placed at each end of the row. The crowns attached to those implants can then support a dental bridge that fills in all the gaps.

Denture implant

An implant-retained denture is for someone missing most teeth. Several implants are secured throughout the mouth, and a full denture is attached to them. This denture can be removable or permanent.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Kinds of Dental Implants in New York, NY

Conclusion

Obtaining an assessment of oral health and missing teeth from a dentist can guide a patient toward a specific implant type. Knowing that another implant option exists provides an alternative for patients who do not have a strong jawbone.

Request an appointment or call New York Dental Office at 212-548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Recent Posts

Getting Dental Implants For Dentures

Many people resort to using dentures instead of dental implants in managing tooth loss. Dentures may restore the look of the lost tooth or teeth, but they do not compare to implants. Many dentists may recommend shifting to implants. The goals are to increase comfort and improve function. If you want to know how to…

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth in general dentistry nowadays. These are screws or rods (typically made out of titanium) that can serve as artificial teeth roots. Oral restorations like crowns are fitted to implants to replace missing teeth. Implants are constructed to last a lifetime, but the…

Securely Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

The introduction of dental implants has provided a solution to tooth replacement that goes beyond mere function to address the core of personal well-being. Loss of teeth has an impact on a lot more than just dental health — it impacts chewing, talking ability, and confidence. This is where dental implants come into play as…

Corey Brick, DDS

Share
Published by
Corey Brick, DDS

Recent Posts

What To Expect When Wearing Dentures for the First Time

Traditional dentures, or false teeth, are an effective way to replace missing teeth. While getting…

1 day ago

The Importance of Regular Check-Ups for Denture Wearers

Regular check-up visits are ideal for denture wearers to protect their smile and help ensure…

3 days ago

The Denture Repair Process

Occasionally, dentures need adjustments or repairs to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness. Your mouth changes…

1 week ago

Getting Dental Implants for Dentures

Many people resort to using dentures instead of dental implants in managing tooth loss.

1 week ago

5 Common Questions About the Denture Process

Dentures are a great solution for people who have lost some or all of their…

2 weeks ago

Five Advantages of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are becoming an increasingly popular way to straighten teeth that are crooked, protruding,…

2 weeks ago