A terrific tooth replacement option, dental implants are a durable, long-lasting replacement for your own natural teeth. They’re considered permanent, and directly fused to your jawbone. Implants not only replace your external tooth, they will also strengthen your jawbone and help to preserve the bone that surrounds it.
What Exactly are Implants?
There are a number of different implant types. Each is made for a specific purpose, whether to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as a support system to replace multiple teeth.
No matter what the type, all implants have three different parts: the artificial tooth root which serves as the base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame that is attached to the base, designed to hold an artificial tooth; and the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth.
Implants will support and assist your jawbone health and that of other teeth, as well as improving your smile. And, because implants are just like your natural teeth, that’s how you should treat them:
- Brush them and floss twice a day
- Schedule your regular 6 month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist
What are Dental Implants Made Of?
The two main materials used for dental implants are titanium and zirconia. These materials are carefully researched and tested, and they are not only durable, they are highly biocompatible.
Different Types of Implants
There are four main kinds of implants, including:
- Single Tooth Dental Implants
- Implant Supported Bridges
- Implant Supported Dentures
- All-on-Four Implants
Single Tooth Implants
A single tooth dental implant is the most common type. Like all implants, it consists of three parts:
- the metal implant post inserted in the jawbone
- the abutment or metal frame
- the crown or artificial tooth that the abutment anchors
Inserted in the jawbone surgical, the implant replaces your missing tooth without any damage to surrounding teeth. It will work just like your natural tooth in appearance and function.
Implant Supported Bridges
If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge is used.
Implants replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them then covers the remaining gap. Implant supported bridges won’t damage surrounding healthy teeth, unlike traditional bridges, which can.
Implant Supported Dentures
Dental implant supported dentures are anchored with sturdy metal implants so there’s no need for the messy or inconvenient adhesives that traditional dentures require. They’re more comfortable, too. The implant supported partial dentures require two dental implants for support; however, a full dental arch will need a minimum of four implants. As to the dentures themselves, they can be placed permanently in your mouth or inserted as snap-on, removable dentures.
All-on-4 Implants
If you’re missing all your teeth in an upper or lower arch, all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Only four implants are necessary to support a full replacement arch.
All-on-4 implants are durable and functional, supporting your jawbone and making excellent use of available bone to help prevent a bone graft. Once the implant posts are placed, the artificial teeth are attached.
Ready to Learn More about Implants?
If you’re ready to learn more about dental implant options, give us a call. We can help you with replacing any damaged or missing teeth. We’re here to help. Just reach out today!