Are you considering getting dental implants? Here's everything you need to know about the different types available from a cosmetic dentist. Read on for more.
If you're one of the
millions of Americans suffering from tooth loss, dental implants are a great option.
They're strong, look great, and last for many years if well cared for. They also provide a much more natural feeling than dentures. But are you finding all the different options confusing?
Let's take a guided tour of the types of dental implants available from a Brewster, NY cosmetic dentist. Then you can choose the right type for you!
Type 1 - Endosteal Dental Implants
Dental implants are false teeth with a difference. Instead of simply being glued to the surface of the gums, dental implants are embedded into the jaw bone. This type of
dental implant is called an endosteal implant.
The implant replaces the roots of the tooth. The tooth root implant is a small post. This is made of titanium and goes into the bone beneath the missing tooth.
The jawbone grows around the implant, making it super strong. A second small post is then attached to the implant. This is called an abutment.
The new crown or crowns are then securely fastened onto the abutment. A single implant can usually take one or two crowns. That means that one implant can replace two adjacent teeth.
The result is the closest thing to a natural tooth you can get! Endosteal is the type your Brewster, NY cosmetic dentist will recommend for most patients.
Will I Need Jawbone Restoration?
Some people with severe tooth loss also suffer from loss of bone in the jaw. If this is true in your case, dental implants may still be possible. You will need to have a bone graft to rebuild the bone before having implant surgery.
Type 2 - Subperiosteal Implants
The second and less common type of implant is a subperiosteal implant.
These implants go under the gum. But instead of drilling into the bone, they sit on top of it. The dentist then attaches a post to this metal frame, and the gum grows around it to hold it in place.
The dentures then attach to the post. This was popular in the past but is now much less common. That's because it is not as strong as endosteal implants.
However, it is still an option for certain patients. This applies if you do not have enough jawbone to attach a regular implant to, or you don't want to undergo surgery to build up the bone in that area.
Type 3 - Dental Implants for Severe Tooth Loss
If you have severe tooth loss or complete tooth loss, this might be quite daunting. You might be thinking that you'll need multiple implants to replace all your individual teeth.
You will need to have endosteal implants. But All-On-4 dental implants mean you can get a full set of teeth with far fewer implants than you might think.
All-On-4 Dental Implants
All-On-4 dental implants make full smile restoration a reality, using only four dental implants per upper or lower set. It's a great option offered by your
local Brewster, NY cosmetic dentist.
All-On-4 allows you to have all your teeth (upper or lower) replaced with a single arch of teeth. The arch attaches to the four implants. They are strategically placed for strength and security.
Once the implants and abutments are in place, your dentist will attach a bespoke denture prosthesis to the four implants. The entire set is then held securely in place.
You can get implants for both the upper and lower arches. This means that for just eight implants, you can have a new complete set of teeth.
Advantages of All-On-4 Over Dentures
Dentures are a lifesaver, but they come with some drawbacks. They can slip and slide, cause speech difficulties, and even making eating firm foods a challenge.
All-On-4 dentures give you the closest feeling to a natural set of teeth. They are fixed in place, so you don't have to remove them for cleaning. They do not slip, and you can eat firm foods with confidence.
If you keep up with your oral hygiene routine and have regular dental visits, dental implants can last for a long time. 10 years is common, but they can last as long as 25 years with excellent care.
Finding a Brewster, NY Cosmetic Dentist for Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery is cosmetic dentistry. If you Google 'dentist in my area' or 'dentist near me,' you may find that not all can provide this service.
You need to find a well-qualified cosmetic dentist near me who can perform the type of implant surgery you need. Most patients will need an endosteal dental implant, whether they need one tooth or multiple teeth-replacing.
If you need to see an emergency dentist in Tarrytown, NY, they may tell you that you need to have your tooth extracted. If the infection is too far gone, this may be the only option.
Don't despair. Dental implant surgery can help. Once the infection has healed, speak to your Brewster, NY cosmetic dentist about the options that are open to you. Even if you have suffered bone loss, dental implants may still be possible with a bone graft.
Choose the Best Brewster, NY Cosmetic Dentist for Your Dental Implants
Dental implants can make a huge difference in your life. Rather than struggling with ill-fitting dentures, experience the confidence of a strong set of teeth again. But make sure you choose the best Brewster, NY cosmetic dentist for your treatment.
At Broadway Cosmetic Dentistry PC in Tarrytown, NY, we know how important that perfect smile is. Whether you need a single implant or a major smile makeover, our specialist team is ready and waiting to help.
Contact us today to request an appointment.
