3 Common Types of Dental Implants
Certainly, your dental health and self-esteem can suffer if you have gaps in your smile. Additionally, the appearance of your smile is important to you and to those around you.
Dental implants are one of the most popular and effective ways to improve both the function and look of your teeth. If you’re thinking of getting dental implants, you’ve come to the right place.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of dental cosmetic procedure. They’re used to replace one or more missing teeth. The implants are made of metal, usually titanium, and they’re placed into your jaw bone, acting as an artificial tooth root.
After the implant is in place, a dental crown is placed on top of it. The crown looks and functions like a natural tooth.
3 Common Types of Dental Implants
Not all dental implants are created equal. In fact, there are several types of dental implants that you might consider, depending on your needs.
1. Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They’re placed directly into your jaw bone. Once the implant has healed and bonded with your jaw bone, a metal post is placed on top of the implant.
A dental crown is then placed on top of the post. Endosteal implants are ideal for people who have healthy gums and enough jaw bone to support the implant.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of your jaw bone. They don’t require as much bone as endosteal implants, making them a good option for people with thin bones.
Like endosteal implants, metal posts are placed on top of the subperiosteal implants. Dental crowns are then placed on top of the posts.
3. Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone, rather than the jaw bone. They’re an option for people who don’t have enough bone in their jaw to support endosteal or subperiosteal implants.
Zygomatic implants are longer than other types of dental implants, and they’re placed in a different way. Rather than being placed directly into the bone, they’re placed into the soft tissue.
Once the zygomatic implants bond with your cheekbone, a metal post is attached to it. As with the other procedures, a dental crown is then placed on top of the post.
How Are Dental Implant Procedures Done?
Dental implant procedures are usually done in two steps:
1. Dental implant placement
First, your dentist will load dental implants or place them into your jaw bone. Once the implant has healed and bonded, the second step can be done.
The healing and bonding of your dental implants usually take about 3-6 months, depending on the type of dental implant.
2. Dental crown placement
In the second step, a metal post is placed on top of the implant. A dental crown is then placed to replace your tooth.
Depending on how many missing teeth are being replaced, the second step might be done in only a couple of hours.
Overall, the entire dental implant procedure usually takes about 6-8 months. The more complicated the case, the longer it will take.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
Patients who are missing teeth due to an injury, accident, or gum disease can benefit from dental implants. Dental implants both have cosmetic and functional benefits. Here are some of the most common advantages of dental implants:
- Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth.
- They are strong and durable. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
- They don’t require special care. You can brush and floss them just like you would your natural teeth.
- They can help to preserve your jaw bone and can help you to speak and eat normally.
- They can give you back your confidence.
What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Implants?
Dental implants also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of before you decide to get them. Here are some of the most common disadvantages of dental implants:
- Dental implants can be expensive.
- Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure. It’s important to find a qualified and experienced dentist to do the procedure.
- The dental implant procedure requires a lengthy healing process.
- Dental implants aren’t right for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, you might not be able to get dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
On average, dental implants can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $4,500 per tooth. For patients who need to replace their entire mouthful of teeth, the full price for dental implant surgery may range from $60,000 to $90,000.
However, it must be noted that there is no standard, set price. The cost of dental implants varies, depending on:
- the types of dental implants needed
- the number of missing teeth needing implants
- the complexity of the dental implant techniques
- the dentist’s expertise, as well as the location
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
Dental implants are usually not covered by dental insurance or medical insurance. However, some dental implant procedures may be partially covered if they’re considered medically necessary.
For example, if you need to get dental implants because of an injury or accident, your medical insurance might cover part of the cost.
It’s important to check with your provider to see if they support dental implants in their insurance coverage before you get the procedure done.
How Are Dental Implants Different from Removable Dentures?
Dental implants are a more permanent solution to replace missing teeth than removable dentures.
While dental implants are surgically placed in your jaw bone, dentures only rest on your gums and can be safely removed.
Dental implants can also last a lifetime with proper care, while dentures need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years.
Lastly, dentures are far cheaper compared to dental implants.
What Are the Risks Associated with Dental Implants?
Dental implant surgery is considered a safe procedure. However, as with any surgery, there are certain risks associated with it. The most common risks associated with implant dentistry include:
- Infection at the implant site
- Nerve damage
- Sinus problems
- Allergic reactions to the implant materials
- Loosening of the dental implant
- Damage to surrounding teeth
How Long Is the Recovery Time for Dental Implant Surgery?
Recovery time after dental implant surgery varies from patient to patient. It usually takes around 3 to 6 months for the implants to fuse with your jaw bone and become strong enough to support a dental prosthetic.
During this time, you’ll need to be careful with your diet and avoid hard or crunchy foods. It’s also important to practice good oral hygiene and avoid smoking.
After the dental implants have fused with your jaw bone, you’ll need to return to the dentist to have the dental prosthetic (artificial tooth) placed on top of the implant.
This second surgery is usually quick and easy, and recovery time is shorter.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
What Are the Best Types of Dental Implants for You?
The best types of dental implants are highly dependent on your individual case:
- An endosteal implant is best for patients who have enough bone in their jaw to support the implant.
- A subperiosteal implant is best for patients who don’t have enough bone in their jaw, or for patients who can’t undergo bone grafting.
- Mini dental implants are best for patients who need a single tooth implant — or a maximum of two — and don’t want to undergo a surgical procedure.
- A zygomatic dental implant is best for patients who need to replace all of their upper teeth, and don’t have enough bone in their upper jaw to support regular dental implants.
How to Choose the Best Dentist for Your Dental Implants
When choosing a dentist for your dental implants, it’s important to:
- Find a dentist who is experienced in implant dentistry.
- Check if the dentist is a member of any professional organizations, such as the American Dental Association or the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
- Ask about the types of implant systems the dentist uses, and make sure they use a system that has been tested and is FDA-approved.
- Check if the dentist offers a warranty on their dental implants.
Best Dental Implant in Fort Worth TX
If you’re based in Fort Worth TX, Dr. David J. Greer is one of the best dentists in the area. He has nearly 20 years of experience in implant dentistry and is a member of the American Dental Association.
Dr. Greer uses implants from the leading manufacturers in the industry. He also offers a warranty on all of his dental implants. He also offers many other dental services such as endodontics, restorative, pediatric, and periodontic dentistry.
To learn more about Dr. David J. Greer or to book an appointment, contact us now. We will be more than happy to help you with any of your dental health needs!