Which Type of Dental Implant Is the Best?

Dental implants have recently become the standard treatment for missing teeth. This owes to the high success rate of implants compared to other tooth replacement options. They have a higher upfront cost but make more economic sense in the long term. They have evolved from offering replacements for single missing teeth to solutions for multiple missing teeth.

Dental implants as we know them today were invented in 1952. Since then, technological advances in dentistry have improved their design and functionality. The advancements have made them ideal choices for millions of patients worldwide.

So, which types of dental implants are there, and which one is the best for you? Read on to learn more.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are replacement options for tooth roots of missing or damaged teeth. The artificial root that replaces the natural tooth root is implanted in the jawbone under the gums. The jawbone provides a firm base to support the tooth or denture that a dentist will attach to the implant.

When you get the implant surgery, you will have to wait about four to six months for the implants to integrate with the jawbone and tissues. The bone and tissues will grow through and around the implants, making them firm.

Dental implants offer the most natural feeling and looking tooth replacements available. The restorations attached to implants are firm and do not move around. They are also suitable for your jawbone because they promote bone growth.

Types of Dental Implants

Several types of dental implants are available for different cases of patients.


 

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most popular dental implants available. Dentists surgically place the implants in the jawbone. When the implant integrates with the jawbone, the orthodontist attaches a fixture to the top of the implant. Then, the orthodontist joins an artificial tooth to the fixture. 

Endosteal implants are versatile, allowing orthodontists to attach single crowns or multiple teeth. They can help attach removable dentures or support the bridgework. The cost of endosteal implants varies depending on the procedure's scope if you need numerous implants or bone grafting.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants differ from endosteal implants because they are not placed into the jawbone. Instead of titanium posts deep into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants comprise a bar that goes on top. Orthodontists design the bar to mimic the contour of the jawbone. They then place it on top of the bone and secure it at three points. They close the tissues over the frame and let it heal. 

Subperiosteal implants are ideal for patients whose poor bone density cannot hold an endosteal implant. It is not very popular as it is predisposed to infections around the bar and frame.


 

Mini Dental Implants

These implants are similar in design to endosteal implants but slimmer in diameter, reaching only 3 mm. They have a ball shape and are mainly used to attach dentures. They are best for knife jawbone rides or bone with limited width. 

For more on which type of dental implant is the best, visit O.C. Lakes Dental at our office in Irvine, California. Call (949) 356-7860 to book an appointment today.