Before deciding to commit, patients first need to understand the different options for implants and what each specifically addresses in the mouth. While implants are mainly used to replace missing teeth, some persons may benefit from single implants while others do better with implant-retained dentures. The main forms of implants can be separated into two basic types, followed by three different kinds of possible appliances.
The most critical factor in receiving dental implants lies in the jawbone. If someone has a weaker jawbone that is not healthy enough to withstand the surgery and pressure involved with implants, then another implant-like option may need to be considered.
An endosteal implant is the most common type of procedure. The process involves drilling holes for the implant into the patient’s jawbone and inserting metal posts. The bone must then heal completely around the post, creating a functional connection with it to mimic a natural tooth root. For this procedure to succeed, the jawbone must be robust and capable of complete healing.
Even after bone grafting, some patients do not have the structural thickness or strength in the jawbone to support endosteal implants. Instead, these individuals can receive subperiosteal implants. In these cases, the metal posts are secured within the gums but on top of the bone.
Patients go through a number of exams and assessments to make sure the jawbone can undergo surgery without adverse effects. Once candidacy is confirmed, there are three options to consider. The one a patient chooses mainly depends on how many teeth are missing in the mouth.
As it implies, single dental implants replace one missing tooth. The gap may be anywhere in the mouth, and one post is secured in the place of the former natural root. Once the jawbone has healed from the placement and bonded to the post, an abutment is attached above the gumline. Lastly, the crown is secured to the abutment, and the gap is filled.
Implant-supported bridges are necessary when a patient is missing a number of teeth in a row. Instead of drilling many holes in the jawbone for numerous implants, only two implants are placed at each end of the row. The crowns attached to those implants can then support a dental bridge that fills in all the gaps.
An implant-retained denture is for someone missing most teeth. Several implants are secured throughout the mouth, and a full denture is attached to them. This denture can be removable or permanent.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Kinds of Dental Implants in Needham, MA
Obtaining an assessment of oral health and missing teeth from a dentist can guide a patient toward a specific implant type. Knowing that another implant option exists provides an alternative for patients who do not have a strong jawbone.
Request an appointment or call Brede Ciapciak Dental at 781-443-8134 for an appointment in our Needham office.
If you are dealing with significant dental trauma or tooth loss, dental implants are a permanent solution that can help restore your smile. The gaps created from missing teeth can also impact speaking and chewing abilities. Many patients enjoy the natural-looking and durable results that implants can offer over replacement options like a resin-retained bridge,…
Patients may feel overwhelmed when a dentist suggests dental implants. The process can sound intimidating, but fortunately the practice of providing patients with a brand-new smile has been studied, modernized, and improved over the past several decades. Not only can patients feel confident smiling frequently in public again, but their oral health and daily function…
For patients who have missing teeth, dental implants are a restorative solution that can help in many cases. This treatment has grown increasingly popular in recent years and is often preferred over other options such as traditional dentures.Many patients are unsure of what implants are and how the procedure works. The following explores some of…
If your teen needs teeth straightening, Invisalign® Teen is one potential option you can choose.…
As a child’s mouth and teeth develop into adolescence, it may become apparent that there…
Invisalign® has been around for a little more than two decades and, in that time,…
If you have an abscessed tooth, then a visit to an emergency dentist is important…
Wondering what cosmetic dentistry procedures can be performed by a general dentist? Read on to…
As a restorative solution, dental veneers are custom-made shells bonded to the front of your…
