Type of Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium or zirconia anchors (usually screws) that are inserted into your jawbone so an artificial dental crown, bridge or denture is attached. It is an effective dental treatment to resolve the issue of missing teeth.

Most people probably don’t realise that there are multiple types of dental implant options available depending on each individual and their dental care needs.

Continue reading to learn more about the different type of dental implants available.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a dental treatment that replaces a missing tooth or missing teeth. It consists of a titanium or zirconia anchor (usually a screw), which is placed in the jawbone, an abutment which is placed on top of the metal anchor, and the artificial crown, which is usually made from porcelain, and which is attached to the abutment. It is typically a treatment that is carried out in stages and can take months.

Dental implants have a long history, with ancient civilisations replacing missing teeth with various materials such as wood, ivory, and shells.

Type Of Dental Implants

Endosteal Implants

The most common type of dental implant. It usually consists of a small titanium screw or cylinder, which is surgically inserted into the jawbone and has an artificial crown attached to it.

It is suitable for most patients, including people who already have bridges or dentures. However, you will need a strong jawbone with good bone density before undergoing the procedure; otherwise, you may need a bone graft beforehand.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are the main alternative option to endosteal implants. They are suitable for patients with insufficient bone density in their jawbone to support traditional endosteal implants and who don’t want to go through the bone grafting procedure.

These implants don’t need to be surgically inserted into your jawbone but instead sit below the gum line and above the jawbone. A metal frame is placed under the gum line with a metal post attached to it. The gum heals and bonds with the frame to secure and hold it in place. Artificial crowns are then attached to the poles.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are another valid option for patients with insufficient bone density in their jaw.

The zygomatic is located under the eye, and the implant post is anchored on the zygoma bone, which supports the artificial crown.

This implant option involves a more invasive procedure than endosteal and subperiosteal implant options. It is only carried out on people with very little bone density in their jaws.

All-On-4 Dental Implants

All-On-4 implants replace missing teeth in a single arch with four dental implants. It is usually recommended for patients who have multiple missing teeth and replaces the entire upper and lower jaw.

The back implants are inserted at a 45-degree angle to maximise the use of the bone. Four implants will be inserted, and then same-day temporary teeth will also be placed.

All-On-4 implants are a permanent solution, but they can be removed to be cleaned.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Recommended for people who have lost several teeth, an implant-supported dental bridge fills the gap between your teeth with artificial teeth by using a ‘bridge’ that connects artificial crowns to dental implants.

They are also known as ‘fixed bridges’ as there is no need to remove them. Using dental implants instead of traditional bonded dental bridges ensures they are protected from dental decay.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Dentures are fake arches of teeth that sit on your gum line. Dentures are removable, which can make them insecure. The solution to this problem is securing dentures with dental implants.

Fixed overdentures are secured to the implants with screws but can be removed by the patient when needed.

Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)

Named for their small size, mini dental implants are the size of a toothpick and thinner than most implants. They are mainly used on a lower denture and are less invasive than regular implants.

It is recommended for people who suffer from bone loss.

Immediate-Load Dental Implants (Same-Day Implants)

Immediate-load dental implants are when your dentist inserts your implants and temporary teeth on the same day and during the same appointment.

A treatment option for people who have enough bone density.

Titanium Implants

Titanium is the traditional material of dental implants. They integrate well with the jawbone and are durable and resistant to any decay or corrosion.

They are the apparent choice for long-lasting dental implants.

Zirconia Implants

Zirconia or ceramic implants are a more modern option. They are as durable as titanium implants but are also a closer match to natural teeth due to their white appearance.

They resist wear and tear and blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. They are also hypoallergenic.

Single-Tooth Implant

An implant that replaces a single tooth.

Multiple-Tooth Implant

If you have more than one tooth that needs to be replaced.

Full-Mouth Implant

You may be eligible for a full-mouth dental implant if you don’t have any natural teeth.

Atria Dental is a family-owned dental clinic with a friendly and professional team that has years of experience carrying out dental treatments. We understand the importance of our patients and are more than happy to sit down with you and listen to any questions or concerns you may have before beginning any treatment. We put your care and comfort before all else.

To learn more about dental implants or our other services, please contact us at 02 400 8310 or visit our website: https://atriadentalgordon.com.au/.