What Are 3 Types Of Dental Implants? A Comprehensive Overview

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Dental implants have changed dentistry. They provide a solid way to replace missing teeth. They not only maintain aesthetic beauty but also contribute to dental health. There are three main types of dental implants. They are the endosteal, the subperiosteal, and the zygomatic. 

Each type is specialized for specific uses and fits different dental conditions. Endosteal implants are the kinds of implants that have been used most frequently. A subperiosteal is applied if there is not enough density in the jawbone for an endosteal implant. Zygomatic implants are used in the fewest cases for those with severe jawbone loss. 

This article explains the features, advantages, and suitability of each type. It helps readers understand the distinct roles played by these implants. They are for dental restoration.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots. They are usually made of titanium. They replace natural teeth by inserting them into the jawbone, They eventually ossify and may serve as a strong support for fillings and artificial teeth.

3 Types of Dental Implants

Dental Implant Components

Implant: The implant post plays the role of a substitute root of the tooth and is put within the jawbone.

Abutment: The abutment is a connector. It is above the implant. It supports and holds the crown.

Crown: The crown can be seen in the tooth. It’s usually made from ceramic or porcelain. It’s designed and colored to match the natural color of the patient’s teeth.

Types Of Dental Implants

1. Endosteal Implants

The Dental Care StandardEndosteal implants are today’s most widely applied implant. They suit most patients, but the post needs a solid, healthy jaw bone to insert into. There are two stages in the process. 

Endosteal Implants

First, a screw-like post, the implant, is planted in the jawbone. The second surgery attaches a post to the original implant after it has healed, and a set of artificial teeth is added on the new top. Merging the features of endosteal implants.

  • Material Excellence: These implants are mostly made from titanium. Thanks to their toughness and compatibility with the human body, these “titanium teeth” can integrate well into the jawbone.
  • Designing implant: They are like tiny screws, resembling the root of the tooth. The extensive range of roots can meet treatment needs for different bone densities and structures.
  • Surgical Procedure: The implant is put inside the jawbone in two steps. After a healing period in which the implant welds to the bone, another operation fastens a post to the implant. The post now provides a foundation for the new artificial tooth.

Patient Benefits

  1. Very long-life: they are the longest-lasting implants, provided the patient takes proper care. So far, they also help to keep the jawbone healthy and stop the bone from atrophy to a great extent.
  2. Post-op Care: It is critical to follow good oral hygiene after surgery. Patients must observe prescribed methods and return for regular recreation and dance classes to ensure the implant lasts as long as possible and grows to eat breakfast and dinner.

2. Subperiosteal Implants As a Viable Alternative

Endosteal implants are a substitute for subperiosteal implants. They rest on the top of the jawbone and under the gums. If the patient doesn’t have a healthy jawbone and either cannot or chooses not to undergo bone augmentation surgery to restore it, this implant is most often used.

Subperiosteal Implants

What Subperiosteal Implants Entail

  • Structure: The framework of these implants lies over the jawbone and under the gums. It consists of a metal frame, to which attached posts poke through the gums and act as an anchor for the new teeth.
  • Patient Considerations: Best for people with shallow bone structure or those who want minimally invasive dental procedures.Operative Procedures: Unlike endosteal implants, which require two surgeries, subperiosteal implants can generally be inserted in just one surgical procedure. This makes them a more conservative option.
  • Life Span And Proper Use: While they may have high toughness, their implants are not as stable as those embedded inside a hole in your bones. Yet they remain a reasonably effective as well as an aesthetic choice for replacing missing teeth.

Oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are equally important for looking after subperiosteal implants as endosteal ones if they are to serve well as time passes.

3. Zygomatic Implants: Providing Specialized Solution

A case in point concerning profound bone loss would render traditional dentures and implants impracticable–they are used to anchor this anchoring point back into the zygomatic or jawbone. For those with handsome jawbone loss, they can be a good alternative, unlike original Implants.

Zygomatic Implants

  • Distinctive Position for Zygomatic Implants: Zygomatic implants are unique in the cheekbone, which is well-placed for patients with severe loss of jawbone.
  • Greater Surgical Complexity: The placement of zygomatic implants is more complex than regular dental implants and requires the services of a dental surgeon with specialized skills and experience in this area–meaning that most general dentists are ill-equipped to handle these issues.
  • Primary Benefits: One of the significant advantages of the zygoma implant system is bone grafting is already taken care of, which also reduces the time and difficulty of leading therapy.
  • Selective Use: Zygomatic implants are so specialized and have specific anatomical requirements that they are not widely used as a routine treatment option. However, they are invaluable for patients not qualifying for regular implants. 

Also Check: Root Canal Treatment For Front Teeth: Procedure And Benefits

Conclusion

The choice of endosteal, subperiosteal, or zygomatic implant depends on the individual’s bone health, dental conditions, and patient needs. Endosteal implants are both feasible and safer for most patients. Subperiosteal implants give those with less bone density in their jaws a valuable alternative, while the zygomatic kind is meant for more complicated cases of excessive bone loss.

Each has its characteristic features, and only a skilled dental professional knows how to effect successful implementation. The trend in implant technology continues to progress, affording more effective and accessible means to restore dental health and confidence.

References

  • Gómez-de Diego R, Mang-de la Rosa Mdel R, Romero-Pérez MJ, Cutando-Soriano A, López-Valverde-Centeno A. Indications and contraindications of dental implants in medically compromised patients: update. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2014 Sep 01;19(5):e483-9. [PMC free article]
  • Block MS. Dental Implants: The Last 100 Years. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2018 Jan;76(1):11-26. [PubMed]

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Dr. David G Kiely is a distinguished Medical Reviewer and former General Medicine Consultant with a wealth of experience in the field. Dr. Kiely's notable career as a General Medicine Consultant highlights his significant contributions to the medical field.

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