An even smile is something we all dream to achieve and a missing tooth can derail everything. Although dental implants are popular due to their ability to restore function and enhance facial aesthetics, there is no one-size-fits-all. There are different types of dental implants, and if you feel it is overwhelming to choose one, you’re not alone.
In this blog, you will get to know about different types of dental implants and how to determine which one will align with your goals. Read on.
Overview of Dental Implants
Dental implant refers to an oral procedure where an artificial post is surgically inserted inside the gum so that it can hold a custom-made crown. This process aims to align your dental arch by filling in the gaps formed due to missing teeth.
Tooth implant is a permanent solution to your smile woes as it helps to overcome the sunken face appearance left from experiencing tooth loss from the dental arch. There are three components of a tooth implant procedure, the root (artificial post), the connector (abutment), and the crown. This is a long-term treatment option and easy to maintain.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Type of Tooth Implant
A dental implant replaces the tooth root with an artificial post that can provide a stable foundation to the prosthetic tooth. A correctly placed implant can stimulate and integrate with the bone, forming a natural connection just as the real ones. An wrong type of implant may result in poor integration, thereby reducing the lifespan of the newly placed implant. This costs you your hard-earned money and your dream to flaunt an even smile.
Unlike dental bridges, a tooth implant protects the healthy adjacent teeth as it’s an independent unit. This further helps to manage your oral health. This procedure also supports gum health as you don’t need to wear and remove it repeatedly, unlike dentures. A properly conducted implant procedure and good oral health maintenance can keep serious gum diseases like peri-implantitis at bay.
Dental implants procedure creates a good balance between aesthetics and oral functions, allowing you to stay healthy inside out. It supports your chewing and speaking abilities, adding to your self-esteem. The custom-made crowns are matched with your real teeth, discreetly allowing you to flaunt a natural-looking smile.
Understanding Different Types of Dental Implants
One can opt for a tooth implant for mere cosmetic purposes or oral health. It is important to learn about different types of dental implants to understand which one will suit your unique needs. The key types include:
1. Endosteal Implants
This is one of the popular types of tooth implants in Australia. Here, a titanium (or Zirconia) post is surgically placed inside the gum to act as an alternative to the natural tooth root in the gap. During Osseointegration, the post fuses with the bone and permanently becomes a part of the dental arch.
One must have good jawbone density to opt for Endosteal dental implants. After the abutment placement, the final set of crown is connected with it, filling the gap. The custom-made crown matches the real tooth colour and shape of the patient, for a natural-looking appearance.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
This one is less common than Endosteal implants. Individuals with inadequate jawbone density or the ones who are unfit for bone grafting can opt for this method. Here, instead of surgical insertion, a metal framework is placed above the bone and just below the gumline. This is used to hold the crown and fill the missing spot.
Small screws can be used to support the framework for lasting results. Subperiosteal dental implants were popular in earlier times, but experienced a setback after the prevalence of traditional implantation methods.
3. All-on-4 Implants
Full Arch or All-on-4 dental implants is one of the key pillars of modern dentistry. This method applies to individuals with multiple compromised teeth on a single dental arch. Here, 4 strategically placed implant posts are used to provide a solid foundation to an entire set of prosthetic teeth. As you don’t have to use one implant for each prosthetic tooth, this has become a popular treatment option for people losing multiple teeth.
The posterior implant posts are placed at 45-degree angle for optimal support and seamless integration. Patients with low bone density, who cannot go for traditional dental implants, can choose this method to enhance their smile.
4. Zygomatic implants
Zygoma refers to a facial bone under the eye. Here, the implant post is anchored to this bone for optimal support. Individuals with one missing tooth at their upper jaw, who cannot opt for traditional implant techniques due to low bone volume and density, can be a candidate for Zygomatic dental implants.
5. All-on-6 Implants
Among different types of dental implants, All-on-6 is the recent addition. It is similar to the All-on-4 technique, but instead of 4 posts, it uses 6 across the single arch. This is more stable, especially for the old people with poor bone density and the individuals with complex periodontal issues.
Differences Between Titanium and Zirconia Implants
With varied materials used in different types of dental implants, it is important to learn the differences between the two popular ones. The distinguishing features are:
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Titanium Implant |
Zirconia Implant |
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1. Flexible and powerful; capable of handling heavy bite forces. |
1. Less flexible and has good compressive strength; cannot handle too much pressure. |
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2. Metal coloured; may be visible for thin gums. |
2. White colour; blends easily with natural teeth. |
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3. Stays ahead in long-term clinical success. |
3. Stays ahead in biocompatibility. |
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4. Rough surface for seamless bone integration makes it prone to plaque. |
4. The smooth surface makes it plaque-resistant. |
How To Choose The Right Type Of Dental Implant?
With different types of dental implants available in Australia, it has become easier to assess the eligible options and choose the one that fits you. However, it is important to know about the factors like gum condition, specific oral goals, expected time, budget, etc. before making a decision. This small step helps to keep implant failure at bay.
Placement technique differences can turn your results from ‘hero’ to ‘zero’. Therefore, one must look for a reliable clinic or a seasoned dentist before proceeding with the treatment. Your jawbone is precious, so is your smile. It is important to research the right provider for you.
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