Types of Dental Implants and When They’re Used

Dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth replacement. There’s no better way to regain a beautiful smile than through these implants. For Houston residents, these implants are the answer for replacing teeth. Not only that, they fit completely and function like regular teeth. However, given the many types of implants available, one must be aware of what they can offer.

If you only have one tooth missing or several teeth missing, being aware of what kind of implant is suitable for you can prove to be a game-changer in your quest for a healthier smile. Here are some of the most common types of tooth implants and who they are best suited for.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to provide anchorage for replacement teeth. After this, the implant is fully incorporated into the bone structure through a biological process known as osseointegration. Finally, a dental crown, dental bridge, or dental denture is connected to the implant.

Types of Implants

There are different types of dental implants in Houston, TX, which can be classified by their position and style. Here’s a list of the different kinds of implants and their applications.

1. Single Tooth Implants

Single-tooth implants are the best option for people with a single missing tooth. For instance, if you have a missing tooth and an empty space where it used to be, replacing the tooth with an implant will not impact the adjacent teeth. This is the best dental implant option for people with healthy adjacent teeth that do not need modification.

Such implants provide a seamless solution that helps restore functionality and esthetics. If you have been suffering from a missing tooth in Houston due to an injury or decay, you can regain your smile effortlessly with a single-tooth implant. Additionally, you won’t need to have a dental bridge that necessitates shaping other teeth.

2. Implant-Supported Bridges

If you find you are missing several teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be the ideal solution. The implant is intended for people with two or more missing teeth. The implant-supported bridge alternative to traditional dentistry, offers crowns for the adjacent teeth, which requires the surgeon to place tooth implants on the sides of the space.

In Houston, for people who have missing teeth, this can be a great option to restore both form and function without the hassle of dentures. These bridges offer greater stability than conventional bridges, as they do not require grinding down healthy teeth.

3. All-on-4 Implants

This is another common choice for people who want an entire set of teeth replaced. In this process, four implants support an arch of new teeth. This method is for people who have several missing teeth or who do not like wearing dentures.

Unlike conventional dentures, which might slip or provide considerable discomfort, All on 4 offers a permanent solution to this problem. It is also recognized for its fast recovery time and straightforward procedure, making All-on-4 very suitable for Houston residents.

4. Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are often preferred when the upper jaw lacks adequate bone for implant placement. Unlike conventional implants, which are placed in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which is the cheekbone. In many cases, zygomatic implants are preferred for individuals who have had bone loss in the upper portion of the jaw due to periodontal diseases or trauma.

Although this solution may not be the first option presented by your implant dentist, zygomatic implants can be a successful option for patients who are not suitable for conventional implants. This option tends to be much more complicated and may involve added healing time, but it is an ideal solution for patients with severe bone loss. 

5. Mini Implants

Mini implants are a smaller version of the traditional implant, typically used when bone density is insufficient to support a standard implant. The use of mini implants can also support a smile renovation for a patient who has lost most of their teeth. Mini implants are more economical compared to traditional implants. In addition, mini implants can be installed in a single visit. On the other hand, mini implants might not be ideal for every patient. This decision will be made by your implant dentist based on your needs.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Oral implants have several advantages beyond just tooth replacement. The following are some key advantages of oral implants that make them a popular choice among many patients.

• Enhanced Aesthetics: Tooth implants look and feel like real teeth, restoring your smile.
• Better Function: With implants, you can eat, talk, and smile easily because you have complete confidence in your secure oral implants.
• Long-Lasting: With the right care and attention, your implants can last a lifetime.
• Bone Preservation: Implants prevent bone loss in the jaw, common with tooth loss.

When Should You Consider Implants?

Implants could be the best solution for anyone seeking to regain a smile after tooth loss. Not every individual is suited for this procedure. For this procedure to be successful, the individual must have adequate healthy tissue to anchor the implant, facilitating fusion between the implant and the jawbone.

Other factors, including your physical and oral health, may affect whether implants are right for you. If you have missing teeth, you might be considering a permanent solution. In that case, you should speak with an implant dentist in Houston to see which type of dental implant would work best for your circumstances.

Get Your Smile Back with Implants

Dental implants not only provide a renewed smile but also allow you to speak, eat, and live life with confidence once again! If you have decided to move forward with recovering your beautiful smile and maintaining good oral health, oral implants might be just what you have been searching for. Whether you need to replace one tooth or several, they can meet your needs. 

At Houston Heights Dentistry, our team is committed to helping you through this entire treatment. We will assist you in understanding the many implant options available. Our team is here to ensure you receive the best possible care, helping you gain a renewed, more functional smile that looks natural and healthy for a lifetime! Contact us today to set an appointment and find out which dental implant solution is right for you, located in the Houston, TX, area!

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