Different Types of Dental Implants: Explained

Different Types of Dental Implants: Explained

Dental health has come a long way in the past several decades. Dental implants are now the hottest way to replace teeth. Whether you need to replace a single tooth, an entire mouth of teeth, or anything in between, an implant option may be right for you.

Getting Ready For Your Implant

Implants are an option whether your tooth needs to come out now, or was lost years ago. Before crafting the tooth, your dentist will implant a post in your jaw. They will then give that a little time to heal before placing the crown onto the post. During the healing process, your dentist will screw a small button to the top of the post. This is called an abutment.

Single Tooth

If you are replacing a single tooth, your dentist will need to build a replacement tooth to fit on the post. Your dentist will measure the space left by the lost tooth, then construct the tooth to fit your mouth. 

The latest in 3D Cone Beam imaging makes it easy for your dentist to see the post, your gums and other teeth in real time to give you the best fit possible. When your tooth is ready, your dentist will ensure it fits into the space. 

When assured it fits perfectly, the doctor unscrews the abutment. Then he affixes the tooth in place with a screw that fits through the tooth and screws into the post he placed earlier. Finally, the dentist will fill in the hole in the new implant and check your bite. 

Bridge

If you are missing more than a single tooth, an implanted bridge may work for you. A bridge spans a space where two or three teeth are missing. 

Your dentist will embed two posts in your jaw when you need a bridge. He will then design a series of teeth that are attached together. When the teeth are ready, your dentist will affix the two ends into the posts that are already in your jaw. 

Full Denture

To replace all the teeth on the upper or lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a full denture implant. The technical term is an implant retained denture. This type of implant is a little bit different from a single tooth or a bridge. 

Your dentist will install four posts in the jaw for a full denture. Unlike the bridge and single tooth, your dentist will not place an abutment on the posts, since the little button would interfere with dentures. This way your dentist can ensure that the dentures are a perfect fit. 

Once the posts have healed, your dentist will make a small incision and place an abutment on the post. Then he will place a corresponding receptacle on the bottom of the denture. This allows you to snap the denture on and off the posts, making it easy to clean it and keep your gums healthy.

Final Thoughts

Whatever type of implant you need, Commonwealth Oral and Facial Surgery can get your smile shining brightly again. Give our offices a call today for a consultation.