Types of Dental Implants
Dentist Newport Beach, CA
 Have you ever wondered, "Am I too old for implants?" You are not alone; this question is one of the most common concerns among patients considering dental implants. Advances in dental technology provide various options to meet all of your dental needs.
Exploring Different Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a durable and effective solution for missing teeth, but not all implants are the same. Understanding the various types of dental implants helps you and your dentist choose the best treatment plan.
Endosteal Implants: The Most Common Choice
Endosteal implants are the most frequently used type of dental implant. These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as a sturdy foundation for artificial teeth.
Benefits of Endosteal Implants
The benefits of endosteal implants include:
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High Success Rate: Endosteal implants boast a high success rate, making them a reliable choice for many patients.
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Durability: These implants are designed to last many years, often a lifetime, with proper care.
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Natural Appearance: They provide a natural-looking result that closely resonates with the appearance and function of natural teeth. |
Ideal Candidates for Endosteal Implants
Patients with sufficient jawbone density are ideal for endosteal implants. Good oral hygiene and overall health are also essential factors in determining suitability.
Procedure for Endosteal Implants
The procedure for placing endosteal implants involves several steps. First, the implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Over the next few months, this dental implant integrates with the bone. Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant, followed by the placement of the prosthetic tooth.
Subperiosteal Implants: An Alternative to Traditional Methods
Subperiosteal implants offer a viable alternative for patients lacking the bone height necessary for endosteal implants. Unlike endosteal implants placed into the bone, subperiosteal implants sit on the top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue, consisting of a metal frame that supports the prosthetic teeth.
Benefits of Subperiosteal Implants
The benefits of subperiosteal implants include:
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Bone grafts not required: Since these implants don't rely on bone integration, they eliminate the need for bone grafts.
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Quicker process: The treatment process can be faster than endosteal implants. |
Ideal candidates for Subperiosteal Implants
The placement of subperiosteal implants is suitable for patients with insufficient jawbone height who cannot undergo bone augmentation procedures. They are often recommended for patients seeking an alternative solution to traditional implants.
Procedure for Subperiosteal Implants
The placement of subperiosteal implants involves creating a detailed impression of the jawbone. Then, a custom metal frame is fabricated to fit precisely over the bone. The frame is positioned under the gums but above the jawbone during surgery. After the gums heal, the frame provides a stable base for the artificial teeth.
Zygomatic Implants: Advanced Solution for Severe Bone Loss
Zygomatic implants represent a more advanced option for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. These dental implants are longer than the traditional ones and anchor in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) rather than the jawbone. This approach bypasses the need for bone grafting.
Benefits of Zygomatic Implants
The benefits of zygomatic implants include:
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Avoid bone grafting: This method eliminates the need for complex bone grafting procedures.
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Suitable for severe bone loss: Provides a solution for patients not advised to get traditional dental implants done due to significant bone loss. |
Ideal Candidates for Zygomatic Implants
Patients with extensive bone loss in the upper jaw who are looking for a stable and long-term solution often find zygomatic implants to be their best option.
Procedure for Zygomatic Implants
The placement of zygomatic dental implants requires surgical techniques and is typically performed under general anesthesia. These dental implants are placed at an angle, allowing them to use the dense zygomatic bone (cheekbone) for support.
Mini Dental Implants: When Less is More
Mini dental implants are a smaller, less invasive alternative to traditional implants. They are often used when space or bone density is limited. They are smaller in diameter compared to standard implants. They are typically used to stabilize dentures or for patients with narrow bone ridges that cannot support full-sized implants.
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
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Less invasive: The procedure is less invasive, often requiring only local anesthesia.
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Quick recovery: Patients generally experience faster healing times and less post-surgery discomfort.
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Cost effective: Mini dental implants are a more affordable option than traditional implants. |
Ideal Candidates for Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants suit patients with minimal bone density, those without extensive surgery, or those looking to stabilize dentures.
Procedure for Mini Dental Implants
Placing mini dental implants is typically a quick and minimally invasive procedure. Small titanium posts are inserted into the jawbone, and the attachments on the denture connect to the implants. This provides a secure fit for the dentures, improving function and comfort.
Immediate Load Dental Implants: Same Day Solutions
For those looking to avoid the wait time associated with traditional implants, immediate-load dental implants provide a same-day solution. It is also known as "teeth in a day" and allows a temporary tooth to be placed on the same day the implant is inserted. This means patients leave the office with a functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth.
Benefits of Immediate Load Dental Implants
There are numerous benefits of immediate load dental implants. This includes:
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Immediate Results: Patients do not have to go without teeth during healing.
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Convenience: The entire procedure can often be completed in one visit.
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Functional: It provides both function and aesthetic solutions from day one. |
Ideal candidates for Immediate Load Dental Implants
Patients with sufficient bone density who want to avoid the lengthy healing period associated with traditional implants can benefit from immediate-load dental implants. Good oral health is also essential to ensure the success of the procedure.
Procedure for Immediate Load Dental Implants
The procedure involves inserting the implant into the jawbone and placing a temporary crown on top. This allows patients to leave the dental office with a functional tooth. Over time, the implants integrate with the bone, and a permanent crown is placed once osseointegration is complete.
Book Your Appointment Today
For more information and dental implant FAQs, visit Enamel General and Cosmetic Dentistry. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Kabaklian, will determine the best treatment plan for your dental needs. Schedule your appointment today by calling 949-991-2499 and begin your journey to a healthier and more beautiful smile. |
