What are dental implants?
Dental implants are biocompatible substitutes for lost natural teeth. They are devices for attaching artificial replacement teeth firmly to the bone. Implants can be used to support a single crown or as anchors for fixed bridges. fixed or removable partial or complete dentures.
Types of Implants
There are basically two types of implants: One type fits on top of the bone. This is called a subperiosteal implant and is custom designed for the patient’s jaw. The second type of implant is placed in the bone. This is called an endosteal implant. There are different sizes and shapes of endosteal implants. They may be shaped like cylinders, or screws or hollow baskets: some are long and thin. The choice of what implant is to be used depends on the quality and amount of available bone and the type of prosthesis or denture which will be supported by the implants. In some patients one or more implants might be used to replace single tooth, act as an anchors for a bridge, or as support for a full denture.
Types of Implants
In the following instances, dental implants can help:
- If you are missing a tooth, or teeth you could be an ideal candidate for implants, especially if your smile reveals missing teeth!
- If you are uncomfortable with the way your dentures fit. Loose dentures can cause sore gums because of friction or food trapped under the bridgework.
- Loose teeth from gum disease may need support.
- Dental implants can give you a new base to support new teeth to function and feel like natural teeth.
In the following instances, dental implants can help:
When are dental implants more advisable?
Dental implants are advisable in visible frontal areas or where a missing tooth could be replaced with a supporting tooth required for a bridge.
- Replacement of a single tooth.
- Replacement of multiple teeth.
- Loose teeth from gum disease may need support.
- Replacement of the entire dental arch, both upper and lower.
