Dental Implant

If you have missing teeth or gaps in your smile, you understand how they can impact your confidence and self-esteem. Dental implants, on the other hand, can help restore your smile and restore your confidence. However, with so many various types of dental implants available, determining which one is best for you may be challenging.

But you don’t need to worry! This article is here to provide you with an overview of dental implant types and extra treatments that may be required with them. It goes over some of the dental implant alternatives, the advantages of receiving implants, and the types of dental implant materials.

The difference between temporary and permanent dental implants is also explained here. Finally, some of your frequently asked questions are answered. So, let’s begin!

What are the 3 Types of Dental Implants?

Let’s take a closer look at the 3 primary options you have to fix your smile!

  • Endosteal Implants

    The most prevalent endosteal dental implants are primarily comprised of titanium. They are inserted into the jawbone and function as prosthetic tooth roots. A crown or bridge can be applied to the implant once it has fused with the bone.

  • Subperiosteal Implants

    These implants are put on top of the jawbone but behind the gums. The gums are allowed to recover around a metal framework that is implanted in the jawbone. Once the gums heal, posts are added to the frame and protrude through the gums. This allows a crown or bridge to be installed on the subperiosteal implants.

  • Zygomatic implants

    Zygomatic implants may be recommended if you have substantial bone loss in the upper jaw and are unable to get standard implants. The implant is instead put in the cheekbone, or zygoma, and connects to the upper jawbone.

What are Other Procedures You May Need With Implants?

Every individual’s case is unique. So, the procedures recommended with implants in everyone’s case may vary. However, some standard procedures that you may need to undergo along with implants include the following:-

  • Bone Augmentation: This procedure is performed when there is insufficient natural bone in the jaw to support an implant. Some specific materials are utilized during bone augmentation to build up the bone so that an implant may be placed.
  • Sinus Lift: The sinus lift surgery is done when there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw, particularly around the molars and premolars. A tiny incision in the gum is created, and the sinus membrane is gently raised to make room for the bone transplant.
  • Ridge Expansion: When the jaw is too narrow to accommodate an implant and has to be broadened, ridge expansion is required. It involves a tiny incision in the gum to widen the ridge using a specific device.

What are the 3 Dental Implant Options?

You can choose any of the following dental implant options based on your oral health status and other circumstances.

  • Mini Dental Implants: These implants are smaller in diameter than standard implants. You can go for mini dental implants if you do not have enough bone in your jaw to support a traditional implant.
  • Immediate-load Dental Implants: – These implants allow for the instant implantation of a crown or bridge, removing the requirement for a temporary restoration. You can opt for an immediate-load dental implant for a quick treatment.
  • All-on-4 Dental Implants: This treatment entails inserting four implants into the jaw, which can subsequently support an entire arch of teeth.

What are the Benefits of Getting Dental Implants?

All types of dental implants provide you with numerous benefits. Some of them are:

  • Your appearance improves
  • Your speech becomes clearer
  • You get comfortable with your smile and bite
  • Your oral health gets a boost
  • Your self-esteem is better
  • You get durability with Implants

What are Dental Implants Made of?

Basically, there are 2 choices you get as dental implant materials. They are as follows:-

  • 1

    Titanium

    Because of its strength and longevity, titanium is the most widely used material for dental implants.

  • 2

    Zirconia

    This material is gaining popularity because of its white color. The zirconia gets mixed in with your natural teeth and its corrosion resistance.

What Is the Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Dental Implants?

  1. Permanent Implants

    Also known as fixed implants, permanent implants are surgically affixed to the jawbone and cannot be removed by you as a patient. You can get them in case you are missing a whole arch of teeth.

  2. Temporary Implants

    These implants are connected to the jawbone but may be removed by the patient for cleaning and maintenance. Temporary implants are also known as removable implants. There are chances that your dentist or orthodontist may recommend them for you if you have a few missing teeth.

What are the 4 Dental Implant Alternatives?

Are you looking for alternatives to dental implants? Maybe you are not ready for the commitment, or perhaps you are not a suitable candidate for the procedure. Whatever your reason, there are a few alternatives you might want to consider.

  • Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are prosthetic teeth that are connected to the teeth on each side of the gap.
  • Dentures: Dentures are also prosthetic teeth that are removable and may be cleaned and maintained.
  • Resin Bonded Bridge: The resin-bonded bridge method includes bonding prosthetic teeth to neighboring teeth with a particular resin.
  • Flipper: Flipper is a temporary tooth replacement solution that is often utilized while waiting for permanent restorations.

Frequently asked questions

  1. Are dental implants painful?

    When it comes to dental implant surgery, it’s crucial to understand that there may be some temporary discomfort. This is due to the fact that the procedure might cause slight hurt to your gums and jaw. But don’t worry; the local anesthesia can numb your mouth and keep you pain-free during the process.

    Naturally, once the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity. This is very natural and varies from person to person. Simply be sure to carefully follow your dentist’s post-operative recommendations to help control any pain or discomfort.

  2. How long do dental implants last?

    Well, the good thing is all dental implant types can last a pretty long time – usually around 10 to 30 years! That means they are a great option if you are looking for a durable tooth replacement. Plus, depending on your age, when you get the implant, it could even last for the rest of your life. Pretty cool, right?

  3. How long does a dental implant procedure take?

    The procedure itself typically takes 1 to 2 hours for each implant. Following that, most dentists advocate a three-month delay before proceeding with the complete restoration of the tooth replacement. This time is necessary to allow the implant to fully heal and connect with your jawbone, forming a firm foundation for the restoration.

    The entire procedure may take several months. But it is well worth it for a long-lasting and natural-looking tooth replacement.

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