Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They are a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. Dental implants are a surgical procedure that involves placing a small titanium post into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. There are several types of dental implants available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and act as the root of the tooth. Endosteal implants can support one or more replacement teeth, depending on the patient's needs. The surgery to place endosteal implants is typically done in two parts. In the first part, the implant is placed into the jawbone. In the second part, a replacement tooth or bridge is attached to the implant.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are less common than endosteal implants but can be a good option for patients with a shallow jawbone. Instead of being placed into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but above the jawbone. A metal frame is placed under the gum, and the replacement tooth or bridge is attached to the frame.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are a more complex type of dental implant. They are used when there is not enough bone in the jaw to support an endosteal implant. Instead, zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone, or zygoma, and extend down into the upper jawbone. Zygomatic implants can be used to replace multiple missing teeth.
Immediate Load Implants
Immediate load implants, also known as same-day implants, allow patients to receive a replacement tooth or teeth on the same day as their implant surgery. This is possible because the implant is designed to support the replacement tooth immediately after it is placed into the jawbone. This type of implant is not suitable for all patients, as it requires good bone density and stability.
All-on-4 Implants
All-on-4 implants are a type of immediate load implant used to replace an entire arch of teeth. The implants are placed in strategic locations in the jawbone to support a full arch of replacement teeth. All-on-4 implants are a good option for patients who need to replace all of their upper or lower teeth.
Choosing the right type of dental implant depends on several factors, including the patient's oral health, the number of missing teeth, and the location of the missing teeth. Talk to your dentist about which type of dental implant is right for you.
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