Titanium posts that are inserted surgically into the jawbone which helps to replace missing teeth are dental implants. These provide a long-term solution that enhances chewing ability and improves appearance. Three types of dental implants are endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants, and zygomatic implants.
Benefits of dental implants over traditional options
Some common advantages of dental implants are as follows:
- It provides a natural appearance and functionality similar to real teeth
- With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for a lifetime providing great durability.
- As dental implants are fixed in place, they provide more comfort as it prevent issues such as gum irritation.
- With dental implants, it provides better oral hygiene.
- With traditional dentures, chewing food will become easier.
3 Main Types Of Dental Implants
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Endosteal implants: The most common choice
An endosteal implant is an implant that is an artificial root put in your jawbone and helps to hold a replacement tooth. It is one of the common types of dental implants and is used when someone loses a tooth.
- Procedure and materials used
The first step is to consult a dentist to determine whether you are an ideal candidate. The procedure includes the following steps:
- Implant placement: Your dentist will numb the area and then will cut your gum and expose your jawbone. After then, the holes are drill in the bone. Then, the surgery will be done and your dentist will recommend proper care and how to maintain your oral hygiene.
- Osseointegration: Growing of the jawbone into the implant is known as osseointegration. At Least 2 to 6 months will be the duration for jawbone to grow and provide a strong foundation for artificial tooth.
- Abutment placement: Your dentist will reopen your gum and then attach an abutment to the dental implant.
- Ideal candidates for endosteal implants
A dentist will determine whether endosteal implants will be an ideal option for you. Some essential criteria that a candidate must meet before having endosteal implants are as follows:
- People who have good general and oral health
- A patient who has healthy gum tissue
- Healthy gum tissue
- Fully grown jawbone
- Having enough bone in your jaw
- Unwillingness to wear dentures
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Subperiosteal Implants: An alternative to endosteal
People who do not have healthy jawbones to support implants must choose subperiosteal implants. They are placed above or on the jawbone or under the gum that holds the replacement tooth.
- How subperiosteal implants are placed
A subperiosteal implant is placed when you make a small incision in the gum and then carefully position a customized metal frame above the jawbone and then secure it with small posts to anchor it to the bone. After that, the healing time will begin before attaching the prosthetic teeth to the posts. There are five steps in the placement of subperiosteal implants:
- Preoperative planning in which the 3D scan is taken helps to create a customized metal frame.
- A surgical procedure in which surgery is performed.
- The healing period in which gums are healed in the implant frame.
- In the abutment placement, abutments are attached to the posts that will help to support the prosthetic teeth
- In the prosthetic tooth placement, the artificial teeth get attached to abutments.
- When subperiosteal implants are recommended
Subperiosteal implants are recommended for people who are experiencing bone loss in the jaw, due to aging, periodontal disease, and injury. These implants are also good option for patients who do not prefer bone grafting.
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Zygomatic implants: Solutions for severe bone loss
Zygomatic implants are implants that are placed at an angle to anchor in the zygoma bone in the upper jaw bone. In these implants, the jawbone is not being anchored near the teeth. These implants are used to address severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
- Placement process of zygomatic implants
The placement of a zygomatic implant takes place when a surgical incision in the gum tissue and then carefully exposes the zygomatic bone. The drilling of a precise hole will help to insert the implant in the bone and then anchoring in the cheekbone. Some steps in the placement of zygomatic implants are:
- Patient evaluation and planning by assessing the patient’s bone density and oral health to know whether zygomatic implants are suitable.
- Anesthesia is given for the comfort of the patient and according to the time duration.
- Incision and flap elevation in which a small incision is done in the gum and then soft tissue is then evaluated.
- Zygomatic implants are identified precisely and then bone preparation is done known as osteotomy.
- After that the implant is placed by selecting the implant length and according to the patient’s diameter.
- The end step is closure in which the surgical site is closed with sutures.
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Specialized uses and benefits
The use of zygomatic implants is for patients who do not have any teeth in the upper jaw, or who have heavily broken down teeth owing to diseases such as periodontitis.
Some benefits of zygomatic implants are as follows:
- Provide a stable basis for dental prostheses for patients with severe loss in the upper jawbone
- Eliminating the need for bone grafting
- Patients who have the possibility of immediate loading can benefit by zygomatic implants
Additional techniques to support dental implants
Some additional techniques used to support zygomatic dental implants are as follows:
1 . Bone Augmentation
Purpose:
Bone augmentation refers to a procedure that is designed to increase the density and amount of bones present in the areas where they are not sufficient for dental implants. The zygomatic implants provide a much stronger foundation for the placement of implants.
Methods: Some methods in bone augmentation that will help to restore the bone volume are as follows:
- Autografts: In this method, the bone is harvested from chin, hip, or any other part of your body and then is transferred to the areas where it is lacking.
- Allografts: In this method, the bone from a donor gets used that helps to stimulate new bone growth in the area of the implant.
- Xenografts: In xenografts, bone from animal source is being used.
- Synthetic Grafts: In this method, man-made materials are being used to help in bone formation.
2. Sinus Lifts
Purpose: The purpose of sinus lifts is to enhance the bone depth in the upper jaw mainly in the back of the mouth near the sinus cavity. The sinus lifts are used only when it is closed to the upper jaw or areas where there is insufficient bone volume being used in implant placement.
Enhancing Bone Depth: The bone growth is promoted when the sinus membrane is lifted after which the bone grafting material is added in the sinus floor. The overall procedure helps in increasing the height of the bone in the upper jaw.
3. Ridge Expansion
Purpose: the main purpose of ridge expansion is to widen narrow jawbone particularly in the lower and upper jaws. This method is used when the bone is thin that will provide support to the implant.
Decision Making: Choosing the right implant
Selecting dental implants is a decision-making process that can be quite challenging given the numerous options that exist. Be it traditional implants, zygomatic implants, or any others, the right implant needs to be chosen for the treatment to be successful functionally and aesthetically. Here is a simple guide for you.
Factors Influencing Implant Selection
The selection process for the right Plano dental implants for your needs should take several factors into account:
- Bone Quality and Quantity: The primary consideration is what your jawbone looks like at the moment. If you are in possession of adequate bone, then traditional implants are best for you. In case of bone loss (due to aging, or injury), other implants such as zygomatic implants or even bone grafting can be utilized.
- Location of the Implant: The location where the implant will be placed is very important especially in the upper jaw region and in relation to the sinuses. In conditions where there is not sufficient bone for conventional implants, zygomatic implants are commonly practiced.
- Medical History Impacts: Even things like overall health which includes diabetes, smoking, and osteoporosis, can affect healing and the eventual success of the implant. Your dentist will check your medical records and determine the type of implant that will suit your health.
- Placement Objective: Different implants come with the capability of achieving different aesthetic goals. It is imperative to select the type of implant that has the most natural look when placing an implant around the front teeth area.
- Cost Determines the Type of Implant Used: Cost and the length of time needed to complete the procedure differ relative to the implant type chosen. The dentist can assist with the decision concerning time, cost, and quality of the implants.
Working Together with your Dentist for Success
Fulfilling your implants selection goes together with the dentist. You can achieve the most favorable results:
- Inclusive Thorough Examination: In the first session, the dentist will examine the condition of your mouth and teeth, get diagnostic impressions like INFRA-RAY or CT and try to learn what you want to achieve. This is where you will know if there is a need for additional procedures like a bone graft or it may be simpler and easier surgical implant method.
- Effective Communication: You must speak to your dentist directly. Make sure to voice all questions or concerns you might have regarding the specific procedure, the recovery period, and the long-term care. This is important to ensure that the treatment plan is constructed to your expectations.
- Adherence to Recommendations: Remember that implant dentistry is a specialty of your dentist, so feel free to act upon suggestions made by them since those will be personalized. Trust your dentist’s professional judgment and adhere to the recommendations for a smoother procedure.
Post-procedure Care and Maintenance
When the implant treatment is finished, you should take care of your new implant and maintain it with post-operative care and monitoring to achieve successful outcomes. Some areas that matter most:
- Immediate recovery tips
The healing stage following surgery is arguably the most important component in the success of the implant. Dental implants may be painful. To achieve optimal healing, consider the following actions:
- Rest: Many patients may underestimate the impact that rest has on recovery. Patients are highly encouraged to refrain from physically demanding tasks for the first few days.
- Pain Control: Swelling and pain are very normal after dental implant surgery. Following surgery, your dentist may recommend other medications to relieve discomfort. Lastly, to help ease the swelling, ice should be applied to the affected area.
- Food Restrictions: During recovery, it is recommended to eat soft and easy-to-chew foods. Try avoiding all forms of heat when consuming food and other drinks, as this may aggravate the area.
- Hygiene Routine: Preventing infections requires maintaining hygiene, but be careful around the implant. Your dentist will provide reasonably soft toothbrushes or specialized mouthwash for your hygiene routine.
- Subsequent Visits: Attend all subsequent visits so that your healing progress can be monitored. Your dentist will be looking for additional signs of infection or other problems.
Long-term maintenance for implant longevity
Like every dental implant, there is a necessity for proper and consistent maintenance of implants. Some of the do’s and don’ts that you must follow after dental implant surgery are as follows:
- Periodontic Visits: Schedule recurring visits with the attending dentist to evaluate the implant’s and adjacent structures’ wellness. These appointments are important to diagnose issues ahead of time.
- Hygiene Practices: Floss and brush your teeth daily to reduce plaque.
- Reduction of Certain Foods: As an added protection for the dental implant, reduce your intake of hard or sticky foods that can exert unwanted strain on the implants.
- Cessation of Smoking: If you are a smoker, consider quitting or lessening your habit since smoking can delay the healing process and increase the chance of implant failure.
Signs to Watch for potential complications
Even though dental implants are safe and effective, there are still possible risks to consider. Watch out for the following changes and inform your dentist right away:
- Pain or Discomfort after the Initial Healing Period: Everyone feels some form of discomfort immediately after surgery. However, if the pain stretches long after the procedure or intensifies, it can be a sign of infection or implant failure.
- Swelling and Redness: Patients can expect to have some level of swelling and redness after any surgery. If those symptoms persist or strengthen as the weeks go by, it can be a sign of infection.
- Gum Recession around the Implant: Healthy gums should surround your implant. If you notice gum recession or visible gaps around the implant, it could be a sign that the implant is not integrating properly with the bone.
- Implant Mobility or Loosening: This is a complication of implants and refers to the inability of the implant to achieve primary stability. It occurs as a result of poor placement or integration failure. This should be taken care of immediately.
- Infection Symptoms: Noticeable signs include pus, bad smells, or unusual discharge around the implant. Seek assistance immediately if these symptoms occur.
Schedule an appointment if you want dental implant surgery
Dental implants may cause pain after the procedure. It is important that you consult experts at Pinnacle Dental if you are experiencing pain and are looking for dental implant surgery. They will help you to enhance your smile and make you look attractive.