Dental Implants Types: Which Is Right for You?
Despite extraordinary advancements in dentistry, millions of Americans suffer tooth loss each year. Prior to the introduction of dental implants, patients were forced to choose from alternative treatment options like bridges and dentures. Today, implants are often the preferred treatment for one or more missing teeth.
Dental implants act as replacement roots that create a solid foundation for fixed or removable prosthetic teeth. Implants also have many advantages over conventional fixed partial dentures. According to the National Library of Medicine, dental implants have a success rate of over 97 percent for 10 years.
If you are thinking about asking your Clermont dentist about dental implants, there are a few things to consider. One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is what type of dental implant is best suited for you. Here’s a look at the different types of dental implants available:
Endosteal and Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal and subperiosteal are the most commonly performed dental implants. The difference between these two implant types relates to how they attach to the jaw.
Endosteal implants are the most common form of dental implant. This type of implant goes into the jawbone to hold one or multiple prosthetic teeth. An endosteal implant is best suited for patients with existing bridges or dentures.
Subperiosteal implants are placed on or above the jawbone. During the procedure, a metal post is placed under and through the gum. A subperiosteal implant is a great option for patients that cannot wear conventional dentures due to inadequate jawbone.
Four Main Types of Dental Implants
Implants are a highly effective solution to restoring missing teeth. With implants, patients can regain strength and stability in their mouth, recover oral functions, and feel confident with a beautiful smile. With proper care, implants can even last a lifetime.
There are four main types of dental implants available, including the following:
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Single Tooth Implants
If you have only one missing tooth that needs to be replaced, a single-tooth dental implant may be right for you. This treatment involves a single dental crown that connects to a dental implant screw permanently inserted into the jawbone. The implant replaces the missing tooth without causing damage to any surrounding teeth. Once healed, a single implanted tooth will look and function just like a natural tooth.
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Implant-Supported Bridges
If you are missing three or more adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge could be the treatment you need to achieve a complete smile. During this procedure, your dentist in Clermont will place two implants, one on each side of the gap. A porcelain bridge is then used to cover the gap between the implants.
Implant-supported bridges do not damage surrounding teeth and offer a more permanent solution to tooth loss. In addition, a fixed bridge can prevent other teeth from shifting, as well as improve speaking and eating functions.
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Implant Supported Dentures
If you’re considering an alternative to traditional removable dentures, implant-supported dentures are an optimal choice. Similar to implant-supported bridges, implant-supported dentures also require two dental implants to act as support for the denture. If you require a full dental arch, you will need a minimum of four implants.
The dentures can be permanently placed in the mouth or be removable, such as in the case of Snap-On dentures. As the dentures will be securely anchored using durable metal implants, there is no need for adhesives as with traditional dentures.
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All-on-Four Implants
All-on-Four implants are recommended for patients who are missing all or most of their teeth. This unique solution is designed to restore your entire lower or upper jaw or both arches. All-on-Four implants are a permanent restoration; however, an overdenture can be temporarily removed for exams and cleanings. This type of implant is a great option for patients looking for both comfort and functionality.
Schedule Your Dental Appointment Today
Dental implants offer patients a safe and effective way to restore one or more missing teeth. For more information about different types of implants or to speak with our dentist in Clermont FL to determine which type of implant is best for you, contact Hancock Village Dental at 352-989-5815.
