A smile is a universal sign of joy, kindness, and love. Unfortunately, many opt out of sharing theirs with friends, family, and strangers alike due to insecurities caused by missing teeth. While some have lost theirs to an injury or accident like a full-contact sport, others may have undergone a disease that has led to bone loss. Thankfully, there are different types of dental implants to help restore your smile.
At Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., our 4.9-star team has been Palm Beach Gardens’ trusted dentist for over 30 years. With thousands of new and returning patients, we’ve seen it all and are constantly working to provide unique implant options for each client’s specific needs. Below, we’ll relay some of them.
What Should You Know About Dental Implants?
But first, what are dental implants? If there’s a gap in your smile due to one or more missing teeth, a dental implant utilizes artificial teeth to improve the aesthetics and oral function of your grin.
The natural-looking tooth comprises of a small post (usually made from titanium), which goes into the jawbone and acts as the artificial tooth’s roots. Then, an abutment or connector merges the new tooth to this rod, giving you strong teeth for chewing, talking, and smiling like before.
Which Dental Implant Is Right for You?
There are two different types of dental implants you should be aware of: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants (the most common type) have a screw-shaped implant that goes into the jaw if you have enough natural jawbone to hold it in place. These prosthetic teeth not only bar further bone loss but can also encourage growth for better bone health.
On the other hand, subperiosteal implants are ideal for those who do not have strong enough jawbones to support endosteal ones. The metal post sits on or right above the jaw so the gums hold it instead. It’s also preferred by patients who cannot wear traditional dentures or do not want to undergo bone augmentation with the endosteal process.
Other Dental Implant Options
Below are some other options your dentist may recommend, depending on your preferences and oral health.
Implant-Supported Bridges
If you need multiple prosthetic teeth to fill a gap in your smile, implant-supported bridges are necessary since they allow a row of teeth to attach to a dental implant in the jawbone. Because the row of teeth doesn’t rest on top of your gums like traditional dentures, they’re more natural-looking, stronger, and more stable.
Zygomatic Implants
Among the different types of dental implants are zygomatic implants resembling implant-supported bridges. However, like subperiosteal implants, they are perfect for those who don’t have optimal jawbone health since the rods don’t go into the jawbone. Instead, they anchor your bridge of teeth into the stronger and more compact zygomatic bone or cheekbone.
Also, zygomatic implants are straightforward, and your dentist can place them immediately, meaning you can leave the dentist’s office with your new teeth that same day. However, because these long screws reach higher up into the face, these implants are only suitable for upper rows of teeth.
Mini Implants
Mini dental implants are half the size of regular implants, making them as narrow as a toothpick and, therefore, less invasive. However, these dental implants’ survival rate is short, making them a temporary solution meant to last just a few months. Patients with low bone density, who need new teeth in narrow locations, or who want to stabilize removable dentures may need them.
Over 30 Years of Care
Implants can revolutionize your smile and daily activities, simplifying actions and giving you more confidence. Whether you want to further your understanding by learning about the three stages of dental implants or more about the different types of dental implants, reach out. Call Mark L. Civin, D.D.S. in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, at (561) 624-2224 to get started today!
