Did you know dental implants date all the way back to 2000 BC? In ancient China, health practitioners put bamboo pegs to use to replace missing teeth.
Missing teeth can lead to problems chewing, bone loss, and shifting of your other teeth. Luckily today, there are different types of dental implants to choose from.
Keep reading to learn all about the types of implants available and what might work best for you!
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Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are small metal posts surgically placed in or on your jawbone. The post either fuses to your jawbone or soft tissues.
Endosteal and subperiosteal implants are the two main dental implants in use today. You can get these implants for a single tooth or as a solution for multiple teeth.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant used in the dental industry today. They’re usually made of titanium and look like a small screw.
Endosteal implants are surgically inserted directly into your jawbone where your teeth are missing. To get these types of implants, your jawbone needs to be healthy and dense enough to support them.
Once the implant is in, you’ll need to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks for the soft tissues and bone to heal around the implant. A post is then connected to the implant where the artificial tooth is placed.
Endosteal implants are one of the best dental implants today as they are the most stable and natural feeling.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are much less common. They’re a good option if you don’t have enough healthy jawbone to support an implant and aren’t able to have a bone grafting procedure.
These implants go under the gum but above the jawline in a two-step process. During the first dental procedure, your gumline is cut to make a mold of your jawbone. Once the incision heals, you’ll go in for a second procedure to have the implant placed on the bone.
Subperiosteal implants are held in place by soft tissue, so they aren’t as stable and long-lasting as endosteal implants.
Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
Dental implants need a certain amount of bone to fuse to. You can get a bone grafting procedure if you don’t have enough bone.
You can choose to use a natural bone graft with bone material taken from another place in your body. Another option is a synthetic bone graft that uses a bone substitute material. It can take a few months for the bone to grow to support the dental implant.
When looking for this type of dental treatment, do your research and find the best dentist for you. Bone graft cost varies, so be sure to look at dental insurance and financing options.
Get a Healthier Smile Today
With the different types of dental implants available today, you’re sure to find one that works for you. Remember, a healthy smile can improve your health and change your life.
Don’t stop reading now! Be sure to check out our blog for health, lifestyle, and business tips that will give your day a boost.
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