Dental implants are a durable, long-lasting replacement for your own natural teeth. Considered permanent, with good oral, they are just like your own natural teeth. Directly fused to your jawbone, implants not only replace your external tooth, they also strengthen your jawbone and the bone that surrounds it.
What are Implants?
There are a variety of different implant types. Each kind is made for a specific purpose, to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as a support system to replace multiple teeth.
But regardless of type, all implants have three different parts: the artificial tooth root which serves as the base for the replacement tooth; a metal frame that is attached to the base, designed to hold an artificial tooth; and the artificial tooth itself, which fills any gaps between your teeth.
Implants substantially support and assist with the health of your jawbone and other teeth, as well as improving your smile. Because implants are just like your natural teeth, that’s how you’ll treat them, too.
- Brush them and floss twice a day
- Schedule your regular 6 month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist
Unlike dentures, implants allow you to eat anything you want. They can also help you to speak more clearly, too.
What are Dental Implants Made Of?
The two main materials that are used for dental implants are titanium and zirconia. These materials are carefully researched and tested, and not only are they durable, they are highly biocompatible.
Different Types of Implants
There are four main kinds of implants, including:
- 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 typical. As is the case 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 surgical, the implant replaces your missing tooth without any damage to your surrounding teeth. That single implanted tooth is just like your natural tooth in terms of appearance and function.
Implant Supported Bridges
If you’re missing three or more adjacent teeth, then an implant-supported bridge can be used.
The implants serve to replace the two outermost missing teeth. A porcelain bridge between them covers the remaining gap. Implant supported bridges do not damage surrounding healthy teeth, which traditional bridges can.
Implant Supported Dentures
Dental implant supported dentures are anchored with sturdy metal implants so there’s no need for the messy adhesives used with traditional dentures. They’re more comfortable, too. The implant supported partial dentures require two dental implants for support; however, a full dental arch will need a minimum of four implants. As to the dentures themselves, they can be placed permanently in your mouth or inserted as snap-on, removable dentures.
All-on-4 Implants
If you’re missing all your teeth in an upper or lower arch, all-on-four implants can be used as anchors. Just four implants cano support a full replacement arch.
All-on-4 implants are as durable as they are functional, supporting your jawbone and making excellent use of available bone to help prevent the need for a bone graft. Once these implant posts are placed, then the artificial teeth are attached.
Ready to Learn More about Implants?
If you’re ready to learn more about permanent, attractive implants, just give us a call. We can help you with replacing any damaged or missing teeth. If you want to find out more about implants, we’re here to help. Just reach out today!