New types of dental implants are being developed all the time. As a matter of fact, there are as many as forty different tooth dental implant options available today. However, some are more common than the others.
All-On-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 dental implants are one of the easiest ways to replace missing teeth with modern materials and technology. If you have dentures or you are missing a large number of teeth, this is a great option to restore your smile.
With All-on-4 dental implants, the entire arch of teeth is supported by only four implants. These supporting implants can be placed on either the upper or lower jaw. Immediately, the missing teeth are replaced with artificial teeth that look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth.
The dental implant procedure for All-on-4 dental implants involves four titanium implants that are inserted into each jaw. The dental implants will be the foundation for a bridge. Then, a fixed set of teeth is added to the implants to replace the missing teeth.
All-on-4 dental implants are among the best dental implant options for anyone who has suffered some bone loss. The posterior implants can be tilted 45 degrees, effectively reducing the requirement for bone grafting. The end result is a set of artificial teeth that practically cannot be distinguished from your natural teeth.
These procedures take advantage of the denser bone that typically remains on some parts of the jaw. The implant position is angled to avoid the sinus cavities of the upper jaw and the nerve canal of the lower jaw.
Multiple Tooth Implants
If you have several missing teeth, you have a few options for tooth replacement. The first option of a removable partial denture relies on the adjacent healthy teeth to stay in place. This puts pressure on healthy teeth and gums. In addition, it loosens the healthy teeth and weakens the jawbone. This can lead to even further tooth loss in the future.
Another option is a multiple tooth-supported fixed bridge. Like a single tooth bridge, this option has complications, compromises, and risks at a much higher degree. Problems with this tooth replacement solution include root canal infections, bone atrophy, periodontal bone loss, and decay. In addition, these bridges do not last as long as single tooth bridges.
The superior option to multiple tooth replacement is an implant-supported bridge. This solution will stop the bone loss process and keep the gum line intact. These dental implant services are much more stable and comfortable than partial dentures and they preserve the adjacent teeth. Natural biting and chewing are restored, which means you will be able to enjoy all the foods you love like apples, steak, and corn on the cob.
Single Tooth Implants
If you are missing one or more teeth, the dental implant options are less complicated. A single tooth implant is placed in an opening in the jawbone that the dentist creates. When the implant attaches to the bone, it serves as the new root for the crown that replaces the missing tooth.
This option requires enough strong bone in the jaw to support the implant. Otherwise, bone grafting may be necessary. The surrounding teeth must also be in good health.
At EON Clinics, we understand that all patients have different needs. We will take the time to explore each type of dental implant with you to help you choose the best option for your teeth.
