How to Protect Your Teeth

Comparing The Three Kinds Of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be a lifesaver if you have ever lost, broken, or needed a tooth pulled. They give you the confidence that you otherwise may be missing, and they function just like a natural tooth. There are actually three kinds of implants that you can have installed. It's important to know the differences between them before you see a dentist for a consultation to fix your smile.

Endosteal Implants

The endosteal implant is commonly used when compared to the other two kinds of implants. It works by screwing a post into your gums that is similar in shape to an actual tooth root. An endosteal implant can be used as a base for one or several implants.

Your dentist will only recommend this kind of implant if the width and depth of your jawbone is big enough to support it. If not, then another method will be suggested.

Plate Implants

Bone grafting will not be an option for you if your jaw is very narrow, not making endosteal implants a possibility to have installed. A good alternative is the plate implant. It gets its name from the flat and long plate that is installed in your jawbone, which the implants then attach to.

Subperiosteal Implant

If you do not have enough width or height left in your jawbone to support an endosteal or plate implant, a subperiosteal implant will be your only option left. The base for the implant is custom-made, because it needs to be designed to rest on top of your jawbone. It is still hidden underneath the gum line, so nobody will be able to see the subperiosteal implant.

Benefits of The Three Kinds of Implants

No matter what kind of implant you need, they all share the same benefits. An implant will always resemble the look of real teeth, so nobody will be able to tell that you have an implant. Implants are also a solution for tooth loss that is long lasting, and will prevent further deterioration of your jawbone.

You will diet will not be restricted by having dental implants, so you don't have to worry about certain foods causing damage to them. You also do not have to deal with the teeth shifting out of place like with dentures, and your speech will not be impaired.

Now that you're aware of the three kinds of implants, you'll be well prepared for your consultation. Contact a local dentist for more information.


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