Which Type of Dental Implants Are Right for You

Which Type of Dental Implants Are Right for You

Apr 01, 2023

Dental implants are a reliable and long-term solution for patients wishing to replace one or several missing teeth. They are made from titanium which is strong, light, and compatible with the human body. Dental implants were introduced as a reliable tooth replacement option that improves speech and chewing among patients with missing teeth. Tooth loss is not only painful, but it can also cause chewing difficulties and impede speech. Patients with missing teeth may also lose confidence due to having an unattractive smile.

Why Do Different Dental Implants Exist?

Implants serve as a good alternative to dentures and traditional dental bridges. In addition, they can also support dentures, crowns, and bridges, making them suited for replacing one or several teeth. There are a variety of dental implants, and this may cause you to wonder why.

When you visit a dentist near you for dental implant installation, they’ll first inspect your teeth for signs of dental problems. The findings of this checkup will essentially determine which treatment they’ll offer you. For example, the health and strength of your jawbone will be considered before the dentist can choose a dental implant for you. Each dental implant is designed for use in patients with varying dental needs. That’s why it’s important to visit Amy Valenti for a thorough dental exam so you get the right dental implants.

Types of Dental Implants

As we said earlier, several types of dental implants are meant for use in patients with varying dental needs. Here are a few examples:

Endosteal Implants: These are the most common dental implant suited for patients with healthy and strong jawbones. They have screw-like posts that are fitted to the jaw where false teeth are to be attached to.

Subperiosteal Implants: It is the main alternative to Endosteal implants, but instead of being fixed to the jawbone, they rest on top of the bone but underneath the gums. A metal frame with a post is fitted under the gums, which holds it in place upon the healing of the gum tissue. Our dentist in Tarpon Shores Dental – Englewood usually recommends this type of implant to patients with insufficient jawbone tissue to support an endosteal implant but still don’t want to undergo a bone graft procedure.

Zygomatic Implants: It’s the least common dental implant. It is usually considered a last option only when the jawbone is severely weak, and the patient doesn’t want to undergo a bone graft procedure. Fitting this type of dental implant is not easy as it involves carrying out a complicated procedure requiring the skills of an experienced dentist like Amy Valenti.

Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants include the common endosteal implant and other variations, such as the subperiosteal implant and the not-so-common zygomatic implant. These implants comprise two pieces with diameters ranging from 3.25 to 5 millimeters inserted into the missing teeth’ bone socket via an external screw. They differ from mini implants in size, durability, and functionality.

Mini Dental Implants

Many people are still new to mini dental implants. Mini dental implants comprise a solid one-piece screw that’s less than 3mm in diameter and features a special ball-shaped end that protrudes from the jawbone. Their small size has earned them other names such as the “narrow diameter implants (NDIs)” and “small diameter implants (SDIs).”

Mini dental implants are best suited for patients with weak jawbones who may otherwise not be good candidates for traditional dental implants.

Traditional vs. Mini Dental Implants

Both traditional and mini dental implants are reliable and will improve your smile’s appearance. They both have their strengths and weaknesses, and the only person who can determine which is best suited for your dental needs is your dentist.

Implant Supported Dentures Provide Stability and Strength

There are two other variations when it comes to dental implants. You can get implant-supported dentures or the implant retained dentures.

Implant-supported dentures serve as permanent dentures and use dental implants for support. They transfer the biting force exerted when chewing to the jawbone, making them stable. They are also comfortable and make every bite feel natural. If you have several missing teeth consider getting all-on-4 dental implants supported dentures for increased stability and strength. It’s worth noting that implant-supported dentures are meant to work with traditional dental implants and are thus not suited for patients with mini dental implants.

On the other hand, there’s the option of implant retained dentures which also hold the force of the bite. Unlike implant-supported dentures, implant-retained dentures apply chewing pressure on the gums instead of the jawbone making them less stable. Ensure you consider all these factors when getting dental implants near you.

Conclusion

There are a lot of factors to consider when getting dental implants. You don’t have to make these decisions alone since our dentist will be there to help and provide guidance. Visit our dental office in Englewood for consultation and treatment. We offer a variety of dental services at affordable rates.