Which Dental Implant Option Is Right For You?

Some people are missing a tooth, and missing even one tooth can lead to changes in your bite and jawbone. Luckily, there are many tooth-replacement options. Dental implants are the most durable way to replace missing teeth because they use the jawbone for support instead of other teeth. If you would like to know more about the types of dental implants provided, keep reading.

Endosteal Vs. Subperiosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are more common because they are durable. The implant sits inside your jawbone, and the bone fuses to it to secure the implant and ensure it can withstand pressure from chewing and teeth-grinding.

Endosteal implants prevent jawbone atrophy (a common problem with tooth loss), but you need a strong jawbone to support them. If you have a weak jawbone from tooth loss or gum disease, you may need a bone graft before the dentist places endosteal implants.

If you can't afford a bone graft, or you want a less invasive procedure, ask about subperiosteal implants. These use metal posts under the gum tissue and above the bone to secure the artificial tooth crown.

Single Implants

Single implants are the most affordable because they only replace one tooth. This makes them look and work like natural teeth. You don't have to clean under the crown, which is a problem with dental bridges. Once placed, the implant is fixed and permanent. However, the artificial tooth crown may experience wear and tear, but it can be replaced without replacing the entire implant.

Multi-Implant Dental Bridge

If you have a group of missing teeth, a multi-implant dental bridge is a more affordable choice compared to multiple single implants because they require fewer implants than artificial dental crowns. For example, three single implants have three implants and three crowns. However, an implant-supported bridge to replace three teeth may use two implants and three crowns.

Removable Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures replace an entire row of teeth. The implants are fixed and permanent. The denture plate attaches to the implants, but you can easily remove them when necessary. The implants better secure the dentures, so they don't move. This makes it easier to eat certain foods, and you won't experience denture slippage from talking, laughing, coughing, etc.

If you have missing teeth, you're not alone. While there are many ways to replace missing teeth, consider dental implants for their amazing benefits. For more information, contact a company like Farhoumand Dentistry.