Dental implants have become a popular and widely adopted solution for replacing missing teeth. These artificial tooth roots are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a strong and durable foundation for replacement teeth. However, not all dental implants are created equal. Before looking for an “implant dentist near me,” you need to understand the various options that can help you make an informed decision and choose the best implant solution for your individual needs.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. These titanium posts are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, where they fuse with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth. 

The benefits of endosteal implants include:

  • Durability and long-term stability: Endosteal implants have a high success rate, with studies showing 98.9% survival at 3 years, 98.5% at 5 years, and 94% at 15 years.
  • Natural look and feel: When topped with a crown or other restoration, endosteal implants can closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
  • Preservation of surrounding teeth: Unlike traditional tooth-supported bridges, endosteal implants do not require the adjacent teeth to be modified, helping to maintain the integrity of the natural dentition.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are an alternative option for patients who do not have sufficient jawbone height or density to support endosteal implants. These implants are placed on top of the jawbone, under the gum tissue, rather than being embedded directly into the bone. The subperiosteal implant consists of a metal frame that is custom-fitted to the patient's jawbone.

The key benefits of subperiosteal implants include:

  • Suitability for patients with insufficient bone: Subperiosteal implants can be a viable option for individuals with insufficient jawbone height or density to support endosteal implants.
  • Stable and secure fit: When properly designed and fitted, subperiosteal implants can provide a stable and secure foundation for replacement teeth.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of implant placed in the cheekbone (zygoma) rather than the jawbone. These implants are typically used when there is severe bone loss in the upper jaw, making it difficult or impossible to place traditional endosteal implants.

The key advantages of zygomatic implants include:

  • Suitability for patients with severe bone loss: Zygomatic implants can provide a solution for individuals who were previously not candidates for dental implants due to insufficient bone volume in the upper jaw.
  • Stable and secure foundation: By anchoring the implants in the cheekbone, zygomatic implants can offer a strong and durable foundation for replacement teeth.

All-on-4 Implants

All-on-4 implants, also known as "teeth in a day," are a specialized type of dental implant solution that can provide a full arch of replacement teeth supported by just four implants. This approach involves strategically placing four implants - two in the front of the jaw and two in the back - to support a custom-made, fixed denture or bridge.

The advantages of all-on-4 implants include:

  • Reduced need for bone grafting: All-on-4 implants can often be placed without the need for extensive bone grafting procedures, as they are strategically positioned to take advantage of the available bone.
  • Immediate tooth replacement: In many cases, patients can receive their replacement teeth on the same day as the implant placement, allowing for a more seamless and efficient treatment process.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures, also known as overdentures, are a type of dental prosthetic that combines the benefits of dental implants with the convenience of removable dentures. In this approach, a series of dental implants are placed in the jawbone, and the denture is designed to snap or clip onto these implants, providing a more secure and stable fit compared to traditional removable dentures.

The benefits of implant-supported dentures include:

  • Improved stability and comfort: The attachment to dental implants helps to prevent the slipping and sliding that can often occur with traditional dentures, providing a more secure and comfortable fit.
  • Preservation of jawbone: By stimulating the jawbone, the implants can help to prevent the bone resorption that often occurs after tooth loss, which can lead to changes in facial appearance.

Conclusion

Dental implants have changed how tooth replacement works, offering a versatile and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. If you are looking for tooth replacement services, enter a search query for an “implant dentist near me” to look for dentists who offer this service.