Did you know that most dentists provide more than one type of dental implant? Dental technology has come a long way in the last few decades, and implants are quickly becoming a popular tooth replacement option.
You may be thinking about a dental implant, but how do you choose the right type of dental implant for you? Each person is different, which is why several types of implants exist. Let’s go over a few of the different dental implants to help you decide which one might work best for you.
Why Do Different Dental Implants Exist?
Dental implants come in two categories; endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.
- Endosteal implants: This type of implant is placed in the jawbone and acts like a natural tooth root. Your jawbone needs a certain amount of density for an endosteal implant.
- Subperiosteal implants: If a patient’s bone density isn’t high enough, a subperiosteal implant may be placed on the jawbone instead of in the jawbone. A metal framework is used instead of a titanium post.
These differences in type are to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from dental implant restorations. For patients who have lower jawbone density but still want an endosteal implant, we can also talk about bone grafting to improve the health of your jaw.
What Type of Dental Implant Restoration Should I Get?
Whether you have an implant placed in your jaw or one over your jaw, dental implants can be used for a variety of restorations. Let’s take a look at the different tooth replacement options.
Traditional Dental Implants With Your Implant Dentist Near Colorado Springs
A traditional single-tooth implant consists of three parts:
- Implant post. A titanium implant post is placed in your jaw. This is the part that acts like a natural tooth root and provides stability for your tooth.
- Abutment. This part attaches to your implant post and provides a surface for your restoration, usually an implant dental crown.
- Replacement tooth. This is the part that you can see. A dental crown will be placed on the abutment and securely attached to create a full, beautiful smile!
These implants are best for restoring a single missing tooth for a sturdy and beautiful long-term solution.
Mini Dental Implants for Lower Jawbone Density and Lower Cost
Mini implants are a good option for patients with low jawbone density who are interested in a dental implant without a bone graft. Rather than a large post and abutment, the smaller implant post is one piece with a ball on the end. Your tooth replacement restoration is attached to the ball instead of an abutment.
You may also want to consider mini dental implants if you are looking for a permanent tooth replacement option. Mini implants generally cost less than regular dental implants. Ask your implant dentist if mini dental implants will work for you.
Implant-Supported Dentures Provide Stability and Strength
If you are thinking about dentures, consider using dental implants to stabilize your restoration. Instead of replacing each tooth, a certain number of implants can be used to attach a full arch denture. An average of six implants may be used per arch, or you may opt for All-on-4® Treatment Concept dentures.
How All-on-4® Treatment Concept Dentures Work for Denture Patients
The All-on-4® Treatment Concept simply means that your full arch is supported by four dental implants. The two foremost implants are angled to provide added support for your dentures. For some patients, All-on-4® Treatment Concept implants may be available as same-day implants.
What Are Same-Day Tooth Implants?
A same-day tooth implant may be available for patients with healthy jawbone density. In some cases, a patient may be able to receive the implant, abutment, and dental crown all in one day.
Where Can I Find a Dental Implant Dentist Near Colorado Springs?
At The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry, we love serving the patients in and around the Colorado Springs area! Your smile is important to us. If we can improve the appearance of your smile while improving your health, all the better. You can contact us for more information about dental implants.
