Understanding the Different Types of Dental Implants
Which is the Right One for You
In the world of modern dentistry, dental implants stand tall as revolutionary solutions that can restore smiles and enhance oral health. However, going through multiple options can be daunting. With various types of dental implants available, each designed to address specific needs, it’s crucial to understand the differences to make an informed decision.
Before we get into the types, let’s understand what dental implants are
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are like small medical devices that are placed in the jawbone to help you chew better and enhance your appearance. They act as a strong support for fake teeth, like crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Types of Dental Implants
You’ve got three main types of dental implants to pick from, which are Endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic.
Endosteal Implants
This is the most common type of dental implant. It looks more like a small screw, cylinder, or blade which is placed into the jawbone. It’s designed to hold one or more replacement teeth, known as prosthetic teeth.
To be a suitable candidate, you need strong jaw bones and to be healthy overall. But if you have chronic diseases like diabetes or smoke, you might not be able to get implants because it raises the chance they won’t work.
If you already have dentures or bridges, your doctor might recommend an endosteal implant.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants, which means ‘on the bone,’ use metal frames placed under your gum, directly on your jawbone. These frames hold posts where artificial teeth, called crowns, can be attached.
If you’ve lost most or all of your posterior teeth (The back teeth), or if your jawbone isn’t tall enough for endosteal implants, your dentist might suggest a subperiosteal implant instead.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are mainly used to replace the upper jaw teeth. They can replace a whole set of missing teeth, damaged teeth, or loose teeth which could be a result of serious gum disease like periodontal disease.
Zygomatic implants give one of the best solutions for patients who do not have sufficient upper jawbone for regular implant bridges. These implants are much longer than the usual ones and are positioned at an angle into the strong cheekbone, called the zygoma bone. This means no need for bone grafts and faster teeth restoration.
Factors That Influence the Choice of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the best option in dentistry for missing teeth and every challenge that comes along the way. However, a dental professional will be in a better position to tell which implant suits the best.
Jawbone Health and Structure
Overall Health and Medical History
Good Oral Health
Oral Habits
Location and Number of Missing Teeth
Aesthetic Considerations and Patient Preferences
Cost and Budget
Timelines for restoration
Implant Specialist’s Expertise
The Right Choice of Dental Implant
Picking the right dental implant is something you should talk about with your dentist. They can take a better look at your mouth, and oral health, which will enable them to come to a conclusion on what you need and help you decide what’s best for you.
Whether you opt for traditional implants, mini implants, or subperiosteal implants, modern dentistry offers solutions to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. Remember, the journey to a confident smile begins with understanding and making informed choices.
Authored By DR. SUDHAKAR REDDY – Implantologist, Bangalore