Choosing to replace a missing tooth with an implant can be a life changing decision. Dental implants are the strongest, longest lasting and most durable way to replace one or multiple teeth. Arvada Dental Center of CO are experts at implant dentistry. You can trust that your unique needs will be taken into consideration when choosing which dental implant is perfect for you.
There are three main types of dental implants that are considered when replacing missing teeth. It is important to understand the differences in order to know which type of implant is best for you. Our dental office (Arvada) can guide you through the process.
Endosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal dental implants are the most common type of dental implant used today. These implants are best suited for patients with good, healthy bone tissue. They can replace a single missing tooth or replace multiple teeth by supporting bridgework or implant supported dentures.
Endosteal implants are composed of three main parts: the implant, abutment, and dental prosthetic. The implant itself is made of titanium or ceramic and resembles a screw. The implant is surgically placed into your jawbone and serves as an artificial tooth root. The abutment is a small connector piece designed to fit into the implant and support your dental prosthesis. A crown, bridge or a denture is then constructed to anchor to the abutment depending on the number of teeth to be replaced. Your dental prosthesis will look and feel just like natural teeth and will be easy to keep clean.
Because of the unique screw-like shape of an endosteal implant, your bone tissue will fuse to the implant creating the strongest bond possible. While it takes about 3 months for the implant to fully integrate into the bone, the results provide incredible bite strength and stability. Some endosteal dental implants are of the “mini” variety, where they are less than half the size of a traditional implant and used in areas where spacing or bone support are a concern.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
The subperiosteal implant are ideal for patients who do not have enough bone mass to support as endosteal implant. The main difference between the two is how they are attached to your jawbone. While endosteal implants are anchored into the bone. These types of dental implants are not as common now that more advanced endosteal designs are available.
Subperiosteal dental implants are anchored on top of the bone. Instead of using an implant screw, subperiosteal implants use a metal framework designed to fit over the jaw bone beneath the gingival tissue. After the gum tissue has had time to heal, posts are installed to the frame which support your dental prosthetic such a crown, bridge or even denture. Subperiosteal implants were the main type of implant design before mainstream implant treatment became available.
Because your subperiosteal implant is not fused into the bone tissue, healing time is shorter and will allow you to receive your permanent prothesis sooner. While both an endosteal and subperiosteal implant require minor oral surgery with the use of anesthesia, the subperiosteal implant is less invasive procedure.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic dental implants are the most complex version and are rarely used. However, these implants can make replacing teeth possible for patients that do not have enough bone mass to support an endosteal or subperiosteal implant due to significant bone loss. Arvada Dental Center might recommend zygomatic implants if you’ve lost a significant amount of bone or want to avoid additional bone grafting or sinus lift surgery.
Zygomatic implants are extra-long implants that are placed into the cheek bone for support. Your cheek bone is also known as the zygomatic bone, which gives this type of implant its name. Since the cheek bone does not lose bone mass like the jawbone, they are able to provide a solid support system for dental implants. Zygomatic implants, however, are only used to replace teeth in the upper jaw.
Call Our Dental Office (Arvada) For Implant Treatment Today
When considering replacing missing teeth with dental implants, it is important to visit with a dental implant expert to determine which type of implant is best suited for your unique dental needs. Whether you are interested in a single tooth implant, implant supported bridgework or implant supported dentures, the implant providers of Arvada Dental Center of CO will provide you with the best care possible. Contact our conveniently located office today to schedule your consultation.
