Dental implants are a durable, long-lasting replacement for your natural teeth. They’re considered permanent, because they’re fused directly to your jawbone. Implants do a lot more than just replace your external tooth; they’ll also strengthen your jawbone as well as the bone that surrounds it.
What are Implants?
So what are implants exactly? There are several different types of dental implants. They can replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or they can serve as a support system to replace a full dental arch.
But no matter what the type, all implants are made of three different parts: the titanium artificial tooth root that acts as a base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame that is attached to the base, which is designed to hold an artificial tooth; and then there is the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth. We use a guided technique to make sure the implant is placed smoothly and as easily as possible.
Implants support and assist with the health of your jawbone and other teeth, as well as improving your smile and bite. They are just like your natural teeth, and that’s how you’ll treat them, too. Unlike dentures, implants will allow you to eat anything you want. They can also help you to speak clearly.
Caring for your implants is easy. Use the same good kind of dental hygiene that you do for your own natural teeth. This means:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Schedule regular 6 month or as recommended for check-ups and cleanings with your dental team
Different Types of Implants
These are the main kinds of implants:
- Single Tooth Dental Implants
- Implant Supported Bridges
- Implant Supported Dentures
- All-on-Four Implants
Single Tooth Implants
A single tooth dental implant is the most common type. As is true with all implants, it is made up of three parts:
- the metal implant post inserted in the jawbone
- the abutment or metal frame
- the crown or artificial tooth that the abutment anchors
Inserted in the jawbone surgically, an implant replaces a missing tooth without damaging surrounding teeth. It looks and acts exactly like your natural tooth.
Implant Supported Bridges
If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, then an implant-supported bridge is used.
The implants serve to replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them covers the remaining gap. Implant supported bridges won’t damage surrounding healthy teeth, unlike traditional bridges which can cause damage by wearing on or weakening other teeth..
Implant Supported Dentures
Dental implant supported dentures are anchored with sturdy implants so there’s no more messy, time-consuming adhesives as when wearing traditional dentures. More comfortable and functional, implants are a terrific alternative to traditional removable dentures. Implant supported partial dentures use two dental implants for support.
All-on-4 Implants
Missing all your teeth in either an upper or lower arch? Then all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Just these four implants can successfully support a full replacement arch.
All-on-4 implants are durable, functional, and support your jawbone, using available bone to n help prevent the need for a bone graft. Once implant posts are placed, the artificial teeth are attached.
Ready to Learn More About Dental Implants?
If you’d like to learn more about dental implants or schedule a consultation, we’re here to help. Just reach out to us today!