Using dental implants as a teeth replacement method is one of the most popular forms of dental restoration. There are various types of implants, and each one has its own unique benefits, so it’s critical that you choose the right one for you.
This article will explain the different types of implants and help you decide which is best for you.
Content Navigation
What are the Different Types of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an increasingly popular option for people who are missing one or more teeth. They provide a strong and stable foundation for artificial teeth and can improve your appearance and overall oral health.
A dental implant is made up of the following parts:
- The titanium implant, which is placed in the bone
- The abutment, which is placed on top of the implant
- The artificial tooth, or crown, which is placed on top of the abutment
There are three main types of dental implants:
- Endosteal implants:
These are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone. Once they have fused with the bone, abutments are placed on top of them, and artificial teeth are attached to the abutments. Endosteal implants are recommended for people with enough bone in their jaw to support the implant. - Subperiosteal implants:
These implants are placed right below the gums but on or above the jawbone. As the gum heals, it forms around the metal framework. This type of implant is used for people with a shallow jawbone and who can’t have endosteal implants. - Zygomatic implants:
These are surgically placed in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone. They are used for people who don’t have enough bone in their jaw for endosteal implants.
Different types of dental implants are available, depending on your jawbone’s condition and overall oral health. The type of implant you need will be determined by your dentist.
What is the Procedure for a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are considered one of the most popular tooth replacement options available today. The procedure is relatively simple and has a high success rate. Here are the steps involved in getting dental implants:
Step 1: Preparation for Surgery
Before dental surgery, the dentist will assess your mouth to ensure that you are a good candidate for dental implants. This includes taking x-rays and ensuring enough natural bone structure is available to support the implant.
If dental implants are not right for you, the dentist may suggest another tooth replacement option.
Step 2: Dental Implant Placement
The next step in the dental implant process is to place the implant into the jaw bone, which will serve as the artificial tooth root. This is done through a surgical procedure that requires local anesthesia. The dentist will numb your mouth and place the implant into your jawbone. As soon as the dentist determines that the implant is in place, the dentist will close up the gums with stitches.
Step 3: Healing Time After the First Procedure
After the first surgery, you will need to wait for the implant to heal. This can take up to several months. During this given period of time, the implant will fuse with the jawbone. Once the healing process is complete, you will need to come back for the next part of the process.
Step 4: Dental Implant Abutment Placement
The next step after osseointegration is to place the abutment where the small metal connector piece will hold the dental crown in place. The abutment will be placed on top of the implant. The dentist will make a small incision in the gums to do this. Once the abutment is in place, it will serve as a base for your new tooth (or teeth).
Step 5: Prosthesis Installment
The final step is to place the false tooth or the prosthetic tooth (such as a dental crown or dental bridge) on top of the abutment. The crown is custom-made to fit over the metal implant or metal post. The new tooth (or teeth) will be securely attached to the titanium post, providing you with a long-lasting and natural-looking tooth replacement solution.
Can Dental Implants Be Done in One Day?
The dental implant process can take several months to complete, but some dental practices now offer same-day dental implants.
Same-day dental implants are becoming increasingly common as the technology and techniques involved have improved.
The main advantage of same-day dental implants is that they allow patients to walk out of the dental office with a new, functional tooth – or several new teeth – in a single visit. The procedure is performed using local anesthesia, and patients can usually return to their normal activities on the same day.
While same-day dental implants are not suitable for everyone, they can be a convenient option for patients who want to restore their smile quickly.
How Much Do Different Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the type of implant, the number of implants needed, the complexity of the procedure, and the need for additional dental procedures such as tooth extraction, bone graft or sinus augmentation (sinus lifts).
Single-tooth implants can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $6,500, while multiple-tooth implants can cost upwards of $25,000. The price also depends on whether the dental implant procedure is performed in an in-office dental suite or a hospital setting.
Final Thoughts
Many dental implants are on the market, and it can be difficult to figure out which one is right for you. However, by knowing the different types of dental implants and what they cost, you can make an informed decision about your smile. Dental implants are considered a costly investment, but they can provide you with a beautiful, natural-looking smile that lasts a lifetime.
If you’re considering dental implant treatment, we hope this article has helped you better understand the different types of implants.
At Comfort Care Dental, our team is passionate about helping patients achieve their perfect smile, and we would be glad to help you find the right implant for your needs. For dental implants and other dental treatments, book an appointment through our website or call us at (08) 9349-0800 today to get started on your journey to a beautiful new smile!
FAQs
Generally, a good candidate for an implant procedure is someone who meets the following criteria:
- Adults who have lost teeth due to injury or periodontal disease
- Non-smokers
- Patients with healthy gums, with no active gum disease or periodontal disease
- Patients with sufficient bone density in the jaw
- Those with no pre-existing medical conditions that can delay the healing period
- Those willing to commit to regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and dental care
No. Despite being an invasive surgery, most patients report having little to no pain during or after the dental implant surgery. However, every patient is different. Other patients reported experiencing some discomfort, but it is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. If you are worried about pain, please discuss this with your dentist.
Recovery from dental implant surgery takes several weeks. During this time, it is important to eat soft foods and take care not to disturb the surgical area. After a few weeks, you should be able to eat and drink normally.
However, it’s important to remember that recovery time and the rate of healing are different for every person.
There are many benefits of implants, which is why they are becoming an increasingly popular choice for tooth replacement. Here are some of the benefits of dental implants:
- Dental implants are more stable.
You don’t have to worry about the implant coming loose or falling out, as can happen with dentures which are removable appliances. - Dental implants prevent the sunken appearance that comes with missing teeth.
When you lose a tooth, bone resorption occurs, which causes bone loss. This can cause the nearby teeth to shift. Dental implants help preserve facial structure by maintaining bone quantity. - Dental implants feel and look like your own real teeth.
Because they become fused with the bone, they function just like natural teeth. - Dental implants improve your speech.
With dental implants, you can speak without worry, unlike dentures, which can slip and cause you to mumble or slur your words. - Dental implants improve your comfort.
You won’t have to worry about your teeth shifting or moving when you talk or eat. And because they are fixed in place, dental implants eliminate the discomfort that can be caused by dentures rubbing against the gum tissue. - Dental implants allow you to eat what you want.
Dental implants are used as an alternative to dentures. This is because, with dentures, there are certain foods that must be avoided because they are too hard to chew or can cause the dentures to slip. Dental implants make it feel like you have healthy teeth and you can eat anything you want without worry. - Dental implants improve your oral health.
This is because there are no cavities or tooth decay to develop around them like there are with teeth. And since they don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, dental implants don’t contribute to dental decay. - Dental implants are easy to care for.
Just brush and floss them as you would your natural teeth and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. - Dental implants last a lifetime with proper care.
With dentures, eventually, you will need to have them replaced due to wear and tear or changes in your mouth over time. But dental implants can last a lifetime if they are properly cared for!
As you can see, there are many benefits of dental implants that make them a great choice for replacement teeth. If you think dental implants may be right for you, talk to your dentist today!