What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants That Exist Today?

The US dental industry was worth approximately $109.28 billion in 2020.

We rely on dental practitioners to keep our teeth clean and healthy through both preventative and restorative dental procedures. But what are the most common types of dental implants used by dentists today?

If you want to improve your smile, as well as your overall dental health, it pays to do a little research beforehand. Our helpful guide explains how to find the best dental implants for you.

Read on for the most common types of dental implants.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium rod that is surgically implanted into your jawbone.

This post will merge with your jawbone, replacing the root of a lost tooth and providing a firm foundation for tooth repairs and restorations. They also strengthen and protect the structure of your jaw bone.

A restoration is built on top of the implanted rod. Typically, a single crown is used to replace a single tooth. However, some dental implants can also support numerous lost teeth with a bridge, or secure permanent dentures.

Single Dental Implants

A dental implant is usually used to replace a single lost tooth. This requires one post and one dental crown.

Using surgical technology, the post will be implanted into your jawbone. The procedure should not cause you any pain or discomfort. It usually takes 3 to 4 months for an implant post to merge with your bone.

Once healed, your dentist can screw your new crown into the post. Your replacement crown will be indistinguishable rest of your teeth.

While you cannot whiten your crowns, there are other solutions for discoloration. This page explains more.

Implant-Supported Bridge

When you have more than one missing tooth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may be your best option. A bridge is made up of two regular crowns on either side of the missing teeth, with a replacement tooth held in place between them.

The main advantage of an implant-supported bridge is the ability to firmly replace numerous lost teeth in a row with the least amount of invasive surgery possible.

The disadvantage is that not all teeth will be implanted. This means you are likely to lose some bone mass over time.

Implant-Retained Denture

If you are missing most or all of your teeth, an implant-retained denture can offer a permanent solution.

Traditional dentures have the disadvantage of being mobile, meaning they can slip out during use.

Dental implants can be used to anchor your dentures permanently. The dentist will implant 4 dental implants along your arch during this procedure.

After your implants have fused and healed, you will be fitted with a denture that connects to these implant posts. The end result is a durable, secure denture.

Types of Dental Implants Explained

Dental implants can help you get your smile back to where you want it to be. We hope this guide to the types of dental implants has put you in good stead to find the right dental solution for you.

These simple dental procedures could be life-changing, so don’t delay.

If you found this article informative, be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more articles and discussions.