Dental Implants can help!
Dental implants are second to none when it comes to replacing a missing tooth or multiple teeth. Tooth loss is still very common in the US, and new dental implant technologies are helping more than 3 million Americans renew their smiles.
With demand rising every year for dental implants, it’s important to know the ins and outs about them, especially as we age and are more likely to need them. Today, we will take a closer look at modern dental implant options and how they can benefit you.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small metal post (normally titanium) that is used as a substitute for a person’s tooth root. It is placed into the jawbone and naturally fuses to the bone over the course of a few months. Depending on the kind of dental implant you choose, you can get one tooth or a whole mouthful of missing teeth replaced with implants. Dental implants are often one’s best choice for the most natural looking and feeling teeth replacement available.
Parts of a Dental Implant
- Implant: The metal post that is surgically embedded into the jawbone and is the root for the crown.
- Abutment: The piece that is added to the implant that holds the crown.
- Crown: The false tooth that is put on top of the abutment and provides the natural look and use like that of a real tooth.
What are the types of dental implants?
1. Endosteal Implants
The most common type of dental implant. The patient needs to have a healthy, sturdy jawbone for the post the fuse to. Endosteal implants serve as an artificial root to hold the new tooth. Small screws protrude out of the gum to hold the new tooth in place. Once the post is healed, the false teeth can be added onto the post to fit in with the other teeth. Having healthy gums and jawbone is essential for endosteal implants to work properly.
2. Subperiosteal Implants.
While endosteal uses an implant screw to stabilize the new tooth/teeth, subperiosteal implants use a metal frame that is placed under the gum but above, or on, the jawbone. The metal frame has a set of posts that are then used to support the addition of a bridge, crown or set of dentures. This is a good alternative if the patient doesn’t have enough healthy jawbone or doesn’t want to undergo the intense surgery to add bone to the area.
3. All-On-4 Implants
This is a full-set of dental implants that is meant to replace your entire upper or lower set of teeth. With All-on-4 implants, the procedure makes it possible for patients who have lost most or all of their natural teeth to be able to have a natural, functional and non-removable option. These last for decades with proper care and are a breakthrough in fixed oral dental care.
4. Implant Overdentures
Overdentures are a more stable and modern version of regular dentures. They are placed on top of implants and can be removed to clean. They can rest on two to ten implants per arch and snap onto the implants for a better hold and security than regular dentures as well.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
- Improved Speech
- Better Oral Health
- A More Natural Look
- Increased Comfort Compared To Dentures
- Easier Time Eating
- Very Durable
- Improved Self-Esteem
How long do implants last?
Dental implants are a great long term solution to tooth loss. They can last decades if not a lifetime with the proper oral care. Make sure to always brush and floss daily to get the most out of your implants and to make sure they are looking their best as well.
Curious About Dental Implants?
Almost 70% of adults aged 35 to 44 have lost one or more of their teeth, so needing to get an implant is not abnormal and nothing to be ashamed of. Ask your dentist the next time you visit what kind of implant is best for you. Not only will dental implants help your confidence, but they help keep your jawbone healthy and look and feel just like your real teeth.
At Mountain and Sea Dental, we provide a thorough, compassionate, and friendly experience every time you visit. Our office is equipped to handle any type of visit, whether you need dental implants, a routine checkup, cosmetic dentistry, or sedation dentistry procedures, our staff is ready to listen and treat any need your oral health requires.
We’re ready to make your smile healthy and bright, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment. We even have a dedicated text message line for more immediate concerns. We proudly serve the Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Goleta areas! We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you or the whole family for your next visit!