The Types of Dental Implants Used to Replace Teeth

When tooth loss occurs, dental implants can be the ideal solution to fill those gaps in your smile. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants offer unparalleled stability, enabling you to eat, smile, and interact with confidence.

Dental implants are highly effective in restoring both the natural appearance and function of teeth. They replace the natural root that is lost along with the tooth. If you're in search of dental implants near you, Mountain Bay Dental Implants and Orthodontics in Los Gatos, CA, is your destination for effective and immediate solutions.

To be a candidate for dental implants, you should have healthy gums and sufficient bone to support the implant. Moreover, a commitment to maintaining the health of your implants through regular oral hygiene and dental check-ups is essential to ensure their longevity.

Types of Dental Implants

Here, we'll explore the various types of dental implants:

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most common type. They are suitable for most patients with healthy jawbones. In this procedure, your dentist surgically places the implants directly into the jawbone. After the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is required to attach the post to the initial implant. Customized artificial teeth are then individually affixed to the posts.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants offer an alternative to endosteal implants. These implants are positioned on the surface of the bone but beneath the gums. A metal frame is placed under the gums and attached to a pillar. As the gums heal, they encase the frame, firmly securing it in place. Customized artificial teeth are then attached to the dental posts emerging from the gums.

The subperiosteal procedure is particularly suited for patients with insufficient jawbone to support traditional implants or those who wish to avoid extensive oral surgery for a bone graft.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are less common for tooth replacement due to their intricate nature. They require adequate jawbone support, and their placement involves a more complex procedure. These longer implants are not situated in the jawbone but rather in the cheekbones, known as the zygomatic arch. They provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth.

Techniques to Replace Missing Teeth

Replacing missing teeth promptly is crucial to prevent dental complications such as misalignment of remaining teeth, loss of bone tissue, and aesthetic concerns. For those who have lost some natural teeth and prefer alternatives to dental implants, there are several options:

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are a suitable choice, especially for individuals with missing front teeth. These prosthetics are worn during the day and removed at night. They typically feature metal clasps for support. It's important to note that the metal clasps may be visible when talking or smiling. Partial dentures need to be removed, cleaned, and soaked in a special solution overnight.

Full Dentures

Full dentures are a cost-effective option for those who have lost most of their natural teeth. Complete dentures consist of artificial teeth set into a base that fits snugly within the patient's mouth. However, one limitation is that the lower denture may tend to move within the mouth and does not address the issue of bone loss resulting from missing teeth.

Dental Bridge

Dental bridges provide an effective solution for closing gaps in your smile. A bridge is a permanent fixture that remains in place once installed by your dentist. It involves anchoring the bridge to the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutments. These abutment teeth are enhanced with crowns for added stability.

Dental bridges are well-suited for individuals with two to five missing teeth adjacent to each other. However, they do not address the problem of bone loss, can be challenging to clean, and may require alteration of the abutment teeth during installation.

Conclusion

At Mountain Bay Dental Implants and Orthodontics, we offer a comprehensive range of dental implant options to address your unique needs. Whether you're considering endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants, or zygomatic implants, our experienced team is here to guide you toward the best solution for your oral health. For those seeking alternatives, our dental professionals are well-equipped to provide partial dentures, full dentures, or dental bridges, ensuring your smile remains beautiful and functional. Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Los Gatos, CA, and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.