Types and Techniques of Dental Implants
Every person is different, and that includes the teeth and mouth of every individual. That is why dentists must have a number of different strategies for each and every procedure, providing custom solutions to the unique challenges individuals pose to them. Dental Implants are no exception, as dentists have developed four different ways to replace missing or damaged teeth.
Today, Implantology (The science of dental implants) is an advanced medical discipline that can effectively address a diverse range of tooth replacement needs. In addition to using natural-looking, biocompatible materials, dental implants have been further elevated by advances in medical technology. Implant dentists (called implantologists) now use three-dimensional digital imaging and implant surgical planning software to accurately analyze an individual’s facial anatomy and to chart a precise treatment plan for each patient.
Also See: Procedure Of Dental Implant Surgery
Types of Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into your jaw to provide a stable anchor for one or more prosthetic teeth. Because they interact with the gum tissues and the bone structure of your mouth, dental implants most effectively replicate the function and appearance of your natural teeth. There are two main types of dental implants:
- Endosteal
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. Meaning “within the bone,” this type of dental implant is surgically placed directly into the jawbone. During the weeks following endosteal implant placement, the bone will grow around the implant (called osseointegration), securely anchoring the implant in place.
There are two types of endosteal implants—cylinder, and blade. Cylinder implants are titanium screws and are the most commonly-used endosteal implant. Blade implants are thin, flat titanium pieces that may be used when the alveolar process (the part of your jawbone that holds your teeth) has atrophied. Both types of endosteal implants have a post (abutment) that sits above the gum tissue, onto which the prosthetic tooth or teeth are eventually placed.
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- Subperiosteal
Though less commonly used, subperiosteal implants are considered for patients who have experienced bone loss and for those who lack adequate natural jawbone to support an endosteal implant, without first having a bone augmentation or grafting procedure. This type of dental implant is placed under the gum—either on or above the outer layer of connective tissue that covers the jawbone’s surface (called the periosteum).
Subperiosteal implants are thin titanium frames, with an attached post, that are custom-made to fit the unique contours of each patient’s jawbone. The gum heals around the frame, securing it in place. A prosthetic tooth is then placed on the post that sits above the gum’s surface.
- Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are the least common type of dental implant available to you. It is the most complicated procedure and should only be done if you don’t have enough jawbone for the Endosteal implant. The implant is placed in the patient’s cheekbone rather than the jawbone.
Also See: Dental Implants Manufacturers In India
Dental Implant Techniques
If your jawbone is not able to support dental implants, several techniques can be used to rebuild bone, restore your natural jawline and provide a sturdy foundation for implant-supported teeth. These include:
- Bone augmentation
This involves restoring or regenerating bone in your jaw when it is not able to support implants otherwise. Research shows that using bone additives and growth factors to fortify the bone generally achieves the best results.
- Sinus lift
Also called sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, this involves adding bone below the sinus in cases where the natural bone has deteriorated due to missing upper back teeth.
- Ridge expansion
If your jaw isn’t wide enough to support dental implants, bone graft material can be added to a small ridge, or space, created along the top of your jaw.
- Immediate load dental implants
Also known as same-day implants, or Teeth-in-a-Day®, an immediate load dental implant treatment places both the dental implant and the temporary prosthetic tooth in a single visit. Immediate load dental implants are used when a patient has enough healthy jawbones to securely support an implant and to withstand pressure on the temporary prosthetic tooth.
- Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)
Also known as small or narrow diameter implants, MDIs are narrow Endosteal implants that are primarily used to anchor implant-supported dentures on the lower jaw. MDIs are considered a less invasive implant treatment and are an option for those who have experienced bone deterioration and are not ideal candidates for bone grafting treatments.
Hence, dental implants are a reliable solution to replace missing teeth, to restore oral health and function, and to reclaim your smile’s beauty. Your dentist can help you understand your best options for dental implant treatment and can assist you in planning your unique dental implant journey.