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Home / Blog / Dental Implants / Dental Implant Types

Dental Implant Types

Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  / Nov 30, 2023  
Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  
Nov 30, 2023  
Dental Implant Types

Are you missing a tooth and need to have it replaced? Or, perhaps you are considering improving your smile with dental implants? No matter the reason, dental implants are one of the greatest tooth replacement solutions. Did you know that there are many kinds of dental implants?

At Gorgeous Smiles, we understand that each patient is unique and requires personalised care. That is why we will go over the many types of dental implants to assist you in determining which one is best for you. So, if you're considering obtaining a dental implant, stay reading to discover more.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Before delving into their various varieties, let's talk about a few advantages of dental implants. Some of the reasons dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth are as follows:

  • Long-lasting: Dental implants are long-lasting. Unlike other tooth replacements, they are designed to endure for decades. Your replacement tooth can serve you for a lifetime with appropriate care and hygiene. This makes it a worthwhile investment.

  • Natural look and feel: Dental implants closely resemble your natural teeth in appearance and function. They restore the aesthetics and functionality of your smile, making missing tooth issues a thing of the past.

  • Prevents bone loss: Dental implants stimulate and preserve natural bone, preventing bone loss in the jaw. If needed, they can also support bone grafting, promoting the health and integrity of your jaw bone.

  • Easy maintenance: Maintaining dental implants is straightforward. Like genuine teeth, they necessitate frequent brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Because of their durability and ease of maintenance, replacement teeth can last a lifetime with appropriate care.

  • High success rate: Dental implants enjoy a high success rate. This affirms their effectiveness in addressing missing teeth. They provide a reliable and long-term solution, enabling you to confidently enjoy a full, healthy smile.

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants come in various types, each with unique features and benefits. Here are some of the common types available:

Endosteal Implants

The most typical type of dental implant is the Endosteal implant. These implants are made of titanium and are shaped like small screws. They are placed directly into the jawbone through dental implant surgery. This type of implant is ideal for patients with healthy and sufficient bone.

After the initial surgery, the area is left to heal, letting the implant fuse with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. Once healed, an additional procedure attaches a post to the original implant, where the new tooth will be placed.

Subperiosteal Implants

A subperiosteal implant is ideal for people with low bone height or who cannot undergo standard bone augmentation. Unlike endosteal implants, these are not placed into the jawbone. Instead, they rest on top of the bone but underneath the gum.

A metal frame is fixed under the gum with a post attached. After the gums heal, the natural process of osseointegration occurs. The artificial tooth is then attached to the gum-protruding poles in the last step. This implant is less common, but it may be an option for some individuals.

Zygomatic Implants

The least common dental implant is the Zygomatic implant, named after the zygoma (cheekbone) where the implant is placed. It's considered when the upper jaw lacks bone for other implants and bone grafting is unsuitable or undesirable.

In the realm of implant dentistry, Zygomatic implants offer a viable alternative. Due to its complex nature, the procedure calls for highly skilled and experienced dental professionals. However, it provides a strong and long-lasting basis for prosthetic teeth, delivering a confident grin.

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs), known as narrow or small diameter implants, are thinner than most other types. They're often utilised when a smaller implant is needed to fit into a narrow location, such as for a single tooth implant.

MDIs are used for the stability of lower jaw dentures, and due to their size, the placement procedure is less invasive and healing time is reduced. This makes them a faster and less expensive choice, giving you the power and durability you expect from dental implants.

All-On-4 Dental Implants

All-On-4 Dental Implants are an innovative method to replace all your teeth with only four implants per arch. This method places the front implants straight into the jawbone while the back implants are angled for stability.

All-On-4 implants are ideal for patients who have lost most, if not all, of their teeth. The procedure is minimally invasive, delivering immediate results with same-day replacement teeth. This implant technology transforms smiles and lives, offering a secure and lasting solution for total tooth loss.

Factors Affecting the Choice of Implants

There are several things to consider while selecting the ideal implant for yourself. These include:

Bone Quality and Quantity

When picking the right tooth implant, the amount and quality of your jawbone are very important. A bone that is strong and thick gives the implant a stable base, which helps it fit well and last longer.

On the other hand, insufficient bone volume may require bone grafting before implant placement. Your dentist will evaluate your bone state during the first consultations to choose the best implant type.

Cost Considerations

Dental implants are an investment in oral health that might range in price. The cost is affected by the type of implant, the material used, and the intricacy of the process.

Additional treatments like bone grafting might significantly increase the final cost. Always discuss costs with your dentist to make the best decisions for your budget and health.

Location of Missing Tooth

The location of a missing tooth plays a significant role in selecting the right type of dental implant. For instance, a natural-looking implant may be chosen for aesthetics if the gap is at the front.

Conversely, molars often require robust implants capable of withstanding greater chewing forces. Thus, the tooth's position significantly influences the implant selection.

Overall Health

Overall, health significantly impacts the choice of dental implants. Conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis can affect bone health. This potentially complicates dental implant surgery.

Habits such as smoking can delay healing post-surgery. Hence, a comprehensive health assessment is vital before deciding on the type of dental implant.

Personal Preferences

When choosing dental implants, personal preferences play a significant role. You may favour a specific material based on comfort, aesthetic appeal, or durability.

Another important factor might be the recovery time associated with certain types of implants. Budget may also influence your choice, as costs can vary significantly between implant types.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Like natural teeth, dental implants need proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity. To properly maintain your dental implants, follow these tips:

  • Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

  • Floss daily to eliminate any food particles or debris that may have accumulated between the implant and adjacent teeth.

  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash recommended by your dentist.

  • Avoid using tobacco products, as they can negatively impact the success of dental implants.

  • Schedule frequent dental checkups and cleanings to ensure the condition of your implants and surrounding teeth.

Following these tips and practising good oral hygiene can keep your dental implants healthy and functional for years.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are a breakthrough tooth loss treatment that boosts function and appearance. There are various types of dental implants, each with its unique advantages. This makes them adaptable to diverse dental needs and preferences.

Factors such as bone quality, cost, tooth location, and overall health influence the choice of implant. Whichever type of implant you opt for, ensuring proper care and maintenance will lengthen its lifespan.

Dental implants restore your smile and significantly improve your quality of life. Let's embrace this innovation for a confident and healthier smile. We hope this article has been informative and helpful in your understanding of the different types of dental implants.

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