What Are The Different Types Of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are one of the most popular types of procedures that will give you back a healthy and happy smile.

But did you know there are several types of dental implants available? Continue reading to learn what they are and which you may require.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are designed to replace a missing tooth as closely as possible. The most common type of dental implant will even replace the tooth’s root to ensure the prosthetic doesn’t just restore the smile’s appearance but also protects jawbone health.

Patients who need dental implants are usually looking at a 6-month healing period to allow the tissue to heal around the metal post. After that, they can receive the final components of the implant.

The Types of Dental Implants

There are currently four types of dental implants:

• Endosteal implants - These are the most common and are designed with three components. You have the metal post, which acts as the tooth root, and the dental crown, which is connected to the root by an abutment;

• Subperiosteal implants - Instead of having a metal post inserted into the jaw bone, this implant will sit on the bone but under the gums;

• Zygomatic implants - Lastly, these implants are placed in the patient’s cheekbone, usually because the jawbone is not healthy enough to support an implant;

• Mini implants - These are similar to endosteal implants, but the metal post is much smaller, which can allow them to be inserted in areas where there is jaw bone loss.

If your dentist says you need a dental implant, they are most likely talking about endosteal implants.

Even if you don’t have enough bone mass to support them, there are additional procedures such as bone grafts that may help.

Dental Implants: Restoration Types

Apart from the type of dental implants, you may also need different levels of oral restoration.

To that end, dental implants can assist in three distinct cases:

• Single-tooth implant - If you only have one missing tooth, then the single implant is enough to restore your oral health;

• Partial-arch implants - If you have multiple missing teeth, the dentist may recommend a partial denture, supported by 2–3 dental implants;

• Full-arch implants - Used for patients with severe dental damage. Usually, you’ll need 4-6 dental implants placed throughout the jaw, which will support the full-arch denture.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

As you can see, dental implants come in all shapes and sizes. Choosing the most appropriate one generally comes down to your specific situation, which is why it’s best to see Lenoir City dentist, Dr. Joseph Blalock, for an implant consultation.

Based on a thorough assessment of your oral health, you can find out if dental implants are right for you.

To get started, schedule a visit at Lakeside Dental online.

Want to learn more about our services? You can call our office at 865-635-4999.