Types of Dental Implants
Medford, OR
 Missing teeth can affect your self-confidence. Fortunately, there is a simple solution: dental implants. Dental implants provide several benefits and offer solutions for missing teeth. Some of these include:
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They look and act like natural teeth
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They don't need to be removed at night
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They prevent gum disease and bone loss
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They are quite durable
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They keep the adjacent teeth healthy
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They restore several oral functions
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They give patients their self-confidence back |
The Need for Dental Implants
To find out if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, see our dentist, Dr. Joshua Rice. He is highly trained in tooth restoration options.
How can you determine if you genuinely need a dental implant? There are some warning signs that could indicate whether you will require a dental crown and dental implant. These include:
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A severely cracked tooth
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Missing teeth
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Toothache
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Severe pain
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Loose bridge, dentures, or teeth
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Infection in teeth
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Cavities with holes in teeth
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Difficulty biting or chewing |
Making Your Decision Between Single Tooth and Multiple Tooth Implants
Single-tooth dental implants help replace a single missing tooth. On the other hand, multiple-tooth dental implants help replace two or more teeth in a row.
Single Tooth Dental Implants
Single-tooth implants effectively replace a missing tooth caused by gum disease, decay, or injury. Here's how the procedure takes place:
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During the initial appointment, the dentist evaluates the patient's overall health thoroughly
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They check the patient's medical history, conduct a dental examination, and take X-rays
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After considering the gathered information, they create a personalized treatment plan
The plan outlines the surgery's procedure, including the dental crown design, placement, and implant type |
Single-tooth implant surgery offers long-lasting results. It is the best and most reliable option for filling your smile.
Components of the Surgery
A single-tooth implant surgery has three main components. These include:
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The Implant Post: This is usually made of titanium and acts as the artificial tooth root surgically placed in your jawbone.
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The Abutment: This is a connector that joins the implant with the jawbone.
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The Dental Crown: This is a custom-made cap. It matches your tooth's color, size, and shape. The dental crown goes over the dental implant and blends in with the natural teeth. |
Multiple Teeth Dental Implants
This is an advanced option. It is usually recommended for people who have several missing teeth. These implants include filling multiple gaps with dental implants. In the end, a dental bridge forms, connecting your natural teeth to the dental crowns. Multiple teeth implants can replace:
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Adjacent teeth
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Three or more non-adjacent teeth
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A full arch |
Multiple Teeth Dental Implants Surgery Requirements
To be a candidate for multiple teeth implant surgery, here are the requirements:
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You must have sufficient jawbone density.
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If this support is not available for the implants, you will have to undergo bone grafting.
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This involves making the jawbone stronger with a bone material.
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The titanium implant posts are then placed surgically into the jawbone.
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The number of implants required depends on the severity of tooth loss. |
Osseointegration
Osseointegration refers to the healing period that lasts three to six months. During this time, the jawbone and implants fuse. After this, the surgeon attaches the abutment to connect the dental prosthetics. Then, the patient's mouth impression is taken to design a custom bridge. This bridge is then attached with the help of abutments, completing the procedure.
Dental implants for multiple teeth are not like other dental treatment options. Here are a few benefits they offer:
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Maintain the health of the patient's jawbone
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Support customized dental prostheses
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Restore your chewing power
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Prevents bone reabsorption
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Improves your palate |
Dental Implant Options
Endosteal Implants
For single-tooth dental implants, endosteal implants are a popular option. The implants are surgically placed in your jawbone. As time passes, they fuse with the jawbone. This helps create a stable and strong foundation.
Endosteal implants are usually made from two materials:
They also come in different sizes and shapes. This variety helps accommodate different mouth structures.
Subperiosteal Implants
These implants are less common than an endosteal implant. Since they require extensive surgery, most people refrain from getting them. If you don't have enough jawbone density, you can get them. Compared to endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants are inserted differently. They go into the gum tissue. They stay on top of the bone instead of in it.
They are fitted in place using a metal implant post. This attaches the implants to the adjacent bone.
Zygomatic Implants
These implants are best for patients with low jawbone density. As a result, they are not a candidate for the former two implants.
The post of the zygomatic implant is attached to the zygoma. This provides a stable foundation for the prosthetic teeth. The eligibility criteria for zygomatic implant surgery is limited bone density. If you don't qualify for traditional implants, you will qualify for zygomatic ones.
All-on-4 Implants
All-on-4 implants replace several missing teeth in the arch. As the name says, the procedure is done with just four dental implants. The surgery is complex and requires extensive planning. This ensures the implants are placed in the right spots for optimal support.
Implants in the back of the mouth are inserted at a 45° angle. This helps maximize any available bone. One of the best things about All-on-4 implants is that they are custom-made to match your natural teeth color.
Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)
MDIs measure up to a pencil lead or a toothpick. They are narrower compared to other implants. These implants are usually chosen if the patient's lower denture is unstable. MDIs don't require invasive surgery. They hold your dentures in place and prevent slipping while you are talking or eating.
Dental implants prove to be a great investment, thanks to the benefits they offer. For people looking for a way to maintain their original teeth, implants offer the simplest route to a shining smile. Always consult a dental specialist before choosing an implant. Now that you have all the information, you can easily make a decision.
Visit Cascade Dental to find out if you are eligible for dental implants. Book your appointment today with our knowledgeable and friendly staff. If you have any concerns about the procedure, Dr. Joshua Rice is here to assist you. For more information, call 541-779-6401.
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