There are several different types of dental implants that you have to choose from. This informative guide explains your options.

Around 15 million Americans undergo restorative treatments to replace a lost tooth every year. Increasingly, those restorations make use of an advanced tooth replacement known as a dental implant.

Unlike traditional prosthetics, dental implants replace the lost tooth root. This allows the implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture to function like natural teeth.

If you are thinking of getting dental implants, you should learn about the various types of dental implants that are available. We'll explore the options while providing advice on how to find the best dental implants.

Dental Implants for Crowns

The loss of even one tooth can malign your smile or make it difficult to speak and chew with ease. Almost anyone who has lost a single tooth may be a great candidate for a dental implant and crown combination.

Traditional crown restorations cover a damaged tooth. Implant-supported crowns can replace an entire missing tooth and root.

Dental Implant Candidacy

Before your dentist can fit you with an implant-supported crown, your dentist in Salem MA will need to determine if you are a good candidate. Patients should be in good oral health. Your dentist will evaluate the health of the underlying jawbone.

Once your candidacy for dental implants in Salem MA has been established, a date will be set for your dental implant placement. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jaw.

Dental Implant Surgery

Your dentist will begin by ensuring that you are comfortable. This will involve the use of sedation and local anesthesia. Once you are completely relaxed, your dentist will make an incision in your gums.

Once your dentist places the implant in the jawbone, your dentist will suture the incision. Gauze will be used to control any bleeding.

Recovery

Initial recovery requires a few days of rest. Full recovery can take up to six months as the implant fuses with the surrounding jawbone tissue through a natural process known as osseointegration.

At some point during your recovery, a minor procedure will be performed to place an abutment on the dental implant. An abutment is a small metal device that connects the implant to the dental crown.

Dental Crown Placement

As you prepare for your final dental crown placement, Dr. Harbpinder Shevchenko will work with a trusted company to fabricate your custom dental crown. The crown will be fabricated to match the color and luster of your natural teeth.

Once your custom crown arrives at our office, a final appointment will be set to place your crown. After you have seen and approved your custom restoration, Dr. Shevchenko will place your crown. With proper maintenance and regular visits to our office, the restoration can easily last one decade or much longer.

Dental Implants for Bridges

Dental crowns can also support a bridge. The prosthetic is ideal for individuals who have lost multiple adjacent teeth but not an entire arch.

In some cases, a few missing teeth can be addressed using multiple dental crowns and implants. If you are wondering what the benefits of dental implants for multiple missing teeth are, speak with Dr. Shevchenko.

Traditional Bridges: How They Work

A traditional bridge requires healthy teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. To place a traditional dental bridge, your dentist must prepare the teeth that support the dental bridge.

After the outer layer of the supporting teeth is removed, your dentist can use strong dental cement to place a bridge over the prepared teeth.

How an Implant-Supported Bridge Works

Implant-supported bridges work differently. Rather than natural teeth supporting the bridge, an implant-supported bridge replaces up to five teeth using only one dental implant. The restoration looks and functions just like your natural teeth.

Dental Implants for Dentures

Implants can also replace several lost teeth or an entire dental arch. Depending on your restorative needs, your dentist can have you fitted with an implant-supported partial denture or implant-supported full denture.

When Is a Partial Denture Ideal?

A partial denture is ideal for anyone who still has a few healthy teeth remaining. Metal clasps support a traditional partial denture. The clasps attach to your natural teeth.

This type of restoration is prone to wobbling. Partial dentures that use dental implants provide superior stability.

When Is a Full Denture Ideal?

A full denture replaces an entire arch of teeth. A traditional partial denture uses a combination of suction and a bonding compound to stay in place. Dentures are often unstable when they are not supported by dental implants.

How Implant-Supported Dentures Work

Implant-supported full dentures are supported by as few as four dental implants. Implants support bone growth, so patients can enjoy significant oral health benefits by undergoing the treatment.

Implant-supported dentures also provide unparalleled stability. Many people find that they can enjoy foods like steak that were too difficult to chew using removable dentures. If you are tired of worrying about your removable denture wobbling or falling out of place, ask our dentist how dental implants can improve your bite.

Learn More About Different Types of Dental Implants

No matter how many teeth you have lost, there are three main types of dental implants that can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants are an ideal option for anyone who wishes to enjoy the look and feel of natural teeth.

Are you looking for a dentist who can deliver personalized care? Dr. Shevchenko is known for her compassion and superior quality of care. To schedule your appointment with a dentist in Salem MA, contact our office today.

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