Different Types and Procedures for Dental Implants
Although most people are aware of what dental implants are and what they are used for, a common misconception is that all dental implants are the same. Since there are a myriad of manufacturers of this prosthetic, you are assured of finding different types of dental implants depending on what your personal preferences and dental needs are. Here are some of the different categories of as well as procedure used for dental implants that you may find at your dentist.
Types of dental implants
Subperiosteal dental implants
These types of dental implants are typically used during single-stage dental procedures. Your dentist will position subperiosteal dental implants right on your jawbone, inside the gum tissue. The prosthetic then juts out and is held in place by your gums as they heal. The main benefit of subperiosteal implants is that they do not need significant bone length for them to stay in place. As such, they are great for older people who may be suffering from bone loss.
Endosteal dental implants
These types of dental implants are opted for during two-stage dental procedures. Your dentist will surgically implant them right into the jaw, rather than have the implant held in place by your gum tissue. They are a great alternative to other restorative dental procedures such as bridgework or dentures. Endosteal dental implants come in several types such as cylinder implants, threaded implants and bladed implants.
Types of dental implant procedures
Single-stage dental implantation
With this type of dental procedure, your dentist will implant one prosthesis onto the jawbone that will penetrate your gum tissue. Once the healing is underway, you will then have the abutment and the crown applied to the prosthesis without having to undergo additional surgery. This is why it is referred to as single-stage dental implantation. It should be noted though that dental implants that are applied using this procedure tend to be vulnerable to trauma. Since the jawbone is still healing, it is best to ensure that you avoid any situations that could put you at risk of knocking the implant out before it takes.
Two-stage dental implantation
With this type of dental procedure, implantation occurs over a course of two visits to your dentist. With the first appointment, the doctor will surgically embed the dental implant into the jawbone so that it lies flush with it. The dentist will then sew up your gum tissue to protect the implant during the healing period. Once the healing period is done, the dentist will conduct a second surgery by opening up the gum tissue to attach the required abutment.