Lake Lindsey dental patients may find that dental implants are a suitable option for those who have lost teeth due to decay, periodontal disease, trauma or another issue. Dental implants are a permanent, natural looking option which will function and feel just like your natural teeth once the healing process is complete.
Many are hesitant to get dental implants due to the fact that this option involves a surgical procedure, but most report that the healing and recovery process is fairly brief and straightforward. And once healing is complete, you’ll enjoy teeth that function and look just like the teeth you were born with (or even better!)
Are There Different Types of Dental Implants?
Lake Lindsey patients will be evaluated to determine which type of implant is best for their unique dentition. A comprehensive evaluation will be performed, including an examination and x-rays, which will be used to determine the current state of your teeth, gums and jaw bone. Some implants require a strong jaw bone of sufficient depth/height and without this, you may be limited in terms of your options.
Endosteal dental implants typically have a screw or post-like structure that is implanted into the actual jaw bone, mimicking the role of a natural tooth’s root. In order to support this type of implant, you need sufficient bone density and sufficient bone present to accommodate the implant. In addition, if you’ve just had a tooth extracted, you may need to wait for a period of time for the bone to fill in the socket so the implant has more surface area available to bond with. Bone grafts can be used in this type of situation to speed healing.
If you’re not a candidate for an endosteal dental implants, Lake Lindsey patients may opt for a subperiosteal dental implant. This type of implant includes a framework type of structure that is implanted under the gums but on top of the bone. The framework has small “nubs” that are affixed to the framework. These nubs protrude through the gums and are used to attach the visible tooth-like portion of the implant.
A very popular style of dental implants that are ideal for patients who have full dentures are known as all-on-four implants, as an entire jaw’s worth of teeth rests on four small ports that protrude through the gums. All-on-four dental implants are quite popular, offering a secure, natural-looking and natural-functioning alternative to full dentures.
You can also use implants as an anchor point for dental bridges.
Once you get your new dental implant(s) and healing is complete, the care requirements are fairly simple and straightforward – simply brush and floss just as you would normally!
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Anchor Dental Care*