Having healthy teeth and a beautiful smile are very good for your confidence. However, if you have missing teeth due to injuries, gum disease or cavities, you are not without a remedy. Dental implants are a very effective and lasting solution for replacing missing and lost teeth. They are artificial tooth roots that, when properly installed, feel like natural teeth to a very large extent. However, it’s important to note that there are various types of dental implants available, and you have to make a choice. Luckily, you are not alone. In this guide, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the different types of dental implants, including their procedures, benefits, and drawbacks, so keep reading!
Types of dental implants
There are three main types of dental implants: endosteal subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants. Let’s now talk about each of them to determine which is best suited for you.
1- Endosteal dental implants
This type of dental implants involves surgically placing artificial tooth roots into the jawbone to provide support for a prosthetic tooth or bridge. These implants are typically crafted from titanium, a biocompatible material that enables them to fuse with the surrounding bone, establishing a sturdy foundation. They will be a good fit for you if you want a natural-looking tooth replacement option or if you don’t want your healthy teeth removed. Some examples of endosteal implants are single and multiple tooth implants, and more complex options like All-on-4 or All-on-6 implants for full arch restorations.
The procedure
- First, you will have a consultation session with your dentist. They will assess your oral health to evaluate your jawbone condition and determine if you are eligible for implants.
- The dentist will then create a personalised treatment plan.
- Next, they will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. A hole will be carefully drilled into the bone, and the implant will be placed securely into the hole. The gum tissue is then stitched back into place.
- After the implant is placed, a healing period of three to six months is required. During this time, osseointegration occurs, where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone.
- Once there is full integration, the final step is to attach a custom-designed prosthetic tooth or bridge to the implant.
Advantages
- They have a high success rate and can last for many years if you maintain them properly
- Unlike subperiosteal implants, endosteal implants are cheaper, making them more accessible.
- They don’t take a very long time to heal like other types of dental implants.
- They help prevent bone loss in the jaw and maintain the overall facial structure.
Disadvantages
- They have a very invasive and complex procedure. This means there is a higher possibility of complications.
- Endosteal implants need a strong and healthy jawbone for successful placement. If you have inadequate bone density, you may require bone grafting procedures before receiving endosteal implants.
- Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure significantly.
Read also : Implants vs Dentures: Functions, Structure, and Costs
2- Subperiosteal dental implants
Unlike endosteal implants that are fixed within the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are positioned beneath the gum but above the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants consist of a personalised metal framework designed to match the contour of the patient’s jawbone. This framework is accompanied by posts or screws that extend through the gums, securing the replacement teeth or dental prosthetics. This type of dental implants are typically recommended when there is insufficient jawbone to support traditional endosteal implants.
The Procedure
- First, a CT scan or dental mould is used to create an impression of the jawbone. This impression is then used to make a custom-made metal framework using materials like titanium or zirconia.
- Next, an incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone. The metal framework is carefully positioned on top of the bone and secured using screws or other devices.
- Once the framework is secure, the implant is attached to the posts or screws.
- After the procedure, a healing period of four to eight weeks is necessary for the bone to fuse with the implant, during which dentures may be worn. Once the healing period is over, the patient will receive the permanent set of artificial teeth.
Advantages
- It is suitable for patients with insufficient jaw bone.
- It provides a stable and secure foundation for dental restorations like crowns or bridges since the implants are positioned on top of the jawbone.
- It is less invasive because it does not require drilling into the jawbone. This also means less discomfort for the patient.
Disadvantages
- It is not suitable for patients with significant bone loss or gum disease.
- There is a higher risk of infection
- Because it is customised for each patient, it is more costly than traditional implants.
Zygomatic Implants
These implants get their name from the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone) because that is where they are anchored, and extended into the maxillary sinus, a hollow space behind the cheeks. This is different from conventional implants that are placed directly into the jawbone. Using these longer implants takes away the need for bone grafting procedures that are often required with traditional implants.
The Procedure
- You will first be assessed on the condition of your jawbone, sinuses, and other oral structures to determine if zygomatic implants are the appropriate solution for you.
- Based on the results, a customised treatment plan is created.
- The procedure typically requires general anaesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery.
- Your dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the zygomatic bone and gain access to the maxillary sinus. This step may involve a small opening in the cheekbone.
- An incision is then made in the gum tissue, and a small opening is created in the cheekbone to access the zygomatic bone. The bone is then prepared by establishing a channel or pathway for the insertion of the implant.
- The zygomatic implant is carefully inserted into the zygomatic bone and extends into the maxillary sinus. The implant is anchored securely in place, taking advantage of the existing bone structure.
Advantages
- It has a very high success rate
- It is a good solution for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
- It eliminates the need for bone grafting, which is a more invasive and time-consuming procedure.
Disadvantages
- It is complex and technically demanding.
- Carries a higher risk of facial swelling.
- If replacement is needed, it is difficult to retrieve.
At this point, you may already know what type you want to opt for. However, you need to see a dentist to assess you and be sure that it is the best fit for you. Contact us today if you need any help selecting and getting your dental implants. With us, you can be sure that you’re in good hands.
Read also : Dental implant failure (signs, causes & how to prevent it)
