Dental implants involve the placement of artificial roots inside the jaw. The roots are used to hold teeth replacements known crowns. People who lose one tooth or more as a result of periodontal disease, an accident or an assault usually select dental implants as an option for replacing their missing teeth.
Below are the types of dental implants available
- Subperiosteal Dental Implants
This type of dental implant is usually done on the bones. The implants are placed on the top portion of the jaw. The metal framework has its posts protruding out through the gums. This is used to hold the prosthetic tooth or teeth. Patients who may not be able to wear conventional dentures use this type of implant. They can also be used for those whose bone height is minimal.
- Endosteal Dental Implants
This type of dental implants are usually done in the bone whereby screws, blades or cylinders are placed into the jawbone surgically. Most candidates for dental implants use this type. Each of the implants holds a prosthetic tooth or more. Patients with bridges or removable dentures generally use this type of dental implant.
Who can get dental implants
The general criteria that qualifies one as a suitable candidate for implants is good physical and oral health. A certain bone density is required to be considered adequate for an implant. The bones in the jaw will be needed to support a dental implant. The best patients should have adequately healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease or injuries.
An close connection exists between the dental implants and the gum tissues, including the inner bones of the mouth. Dental experts called periodontists specialize in these areas and are usually ideal members of your dental implant medical team. These periodontists have experience in working with other dental professionals who specialize in a variety of areas. Periodontists have the relevant knowledge and training including facilities that are necessary for ensuring implant success.
Procedures for dental implants
It takes a patient, the dentist and the periodontist to have a successful procedure. It is up to you to tell the periodontist and dentist where the implants should be placed and how you want that done. With an analysis of your unique condition and the variety of implant you choose, they will be able to create a procedural plan that suits your particular needs:
- Single Tooth Replacement: An implant and a single crown can replace one single missing tooth.
- Replacing Several Teeth: When several teeth are missing, an implant with supported bridges can be used to replace them.
- Replacing All of Your Teeth: When it’s a case of all the teeth missing, an implant with a supported full bridge or full denture can be used to make a replacement.
Dental implants have been instrumental in improving the quality of life of people who lose teeth under various circumstances such as accidents and disease. Most medical insurance companies cover dental implants, therefore you don’t have to walk around with missing teeth since the process is now affordable.
