Types of Dental Implants
Lynnwood, WA
 A dental implant is a synthetic tooth root inserted into the jaw through surgery. It is a popular option to replace a lost tooth. Teeth can be lost due to root fractures, cavities, facial injuries, gum disease, or teeth grinding. Dental implants have been a dependable solution for replacing teeth for over three decades. They are suitable for people of all ages, making them an excellent choice for almost everyone. There are different types of implants available. Our dentist at Cooley Smiles will help you choose the best one for you.
Single Tooth Dental Implants
Single-tooth dental implants are great for those missing a single tooth. The process involves placing an implant screw inside the jawbone. After the screw fuses with the bone, a dental crown is attached to the screw. This crown looks and feels like a natural tooth. The implant restores the appearance and function of the tooth. This lets you chew and speak normally. It also helps maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth and prevents bone loss in the jaw.
Multiple Tooth Dental Implants
Multiple-tooth dental implants are ideal if you are missing several teeth. They offer a stable, long-term fix, whether you need to restore your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. This method uses multiple implants to hold a bridge or dentures, giving you a complete dental makeover. It brightens your smile and helps you chew and speak better. This thorough solution improves your oral health and lifts your confidence.
Full Mouth Dental Implant
Dentists advise full-mouth dental implants for people who have lost all their teeth. This procedure involves placing multiple implants in the upper or lower jaw to support a complete set of artificial teeth. It restores both function and appearance. It enables patients to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Implants prevent bone loss and ensure long-term oral health. Additionally, implants maintain jawbone health.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Implant-supported bridges are recommended for multiple adjacent missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, they anchor to dental implants, preserving neighboring teeth. This restores natural chewing and speech. They also prevent tooth shifting and maintain jawbone health by evenly distributing chewing forces. They are durable solutions that enhance both function and smile aesthetics.
Materials Utilized for Crafting Dental Implants
Titanium
Titanium is a robust and durable metal widely used for implants. It offers many benefits and is suitable for most people. Titanium implants can be fabricated as a single unit or in two pieces, which is helpful for angled placements in the jawbone. They are biocompatible and resistant to corrosion and fractures. Titanium implants are also durable and safe. They have a success rate of around 97 percent and a survival rate of nearly 99 percent over 10 years. However, titanium implants may not be suitable for individuals with metal allergies.
Zirconia
Zirconia, a robust ceramic material, is another popular choice for dental implants. It is ideal for individuals with metal allergies. The metal-free quality of zirconia can improve appearance, mainly when dealing with gum recession. Unlike titanium implants, which may exhibit dark metal near the gumline, zirconia provides a more natural look.
However, zirconia tends to be more expensive. Also, it is primarily used for single-tooth implants rather than multiple-teeth or full-mouth implants. Zirconia implants typically come as a single piece, which limits options for two-piece designs. This can affect their suitability for angled placements in the jawbone.
Dental Implant Procedure
Getting dental implants involves several stages spanning 3 to 9 months. You will work with various dental experts like oral surgeons and gum specialists until treatment is finished.
Evalution
First, your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, and jawbone. They will check if your jawbone is strong enough to support the implant. If it is not, you might need a bone graft or another treatment to strengthen it. Your gums must also be healthy, without gum disease. The procedure varies based on how many teeth need replacement. The surgery is typically outpatient. You might get general anesthesia, local anesthesia, or IV sedation, as advised by your specialist.
Implant Placement
The oral surgeon cuts the gum to expose the jawbone. They then drill holes deep into the bone for the implant post. Optionally, a temporary denture can cover the site until the permanent tooth is ready. If you get a subperiosteal implant, the post is placed on or above the jawbone without drilling. Afterward, expect discomfort and swelling for a few days. You can resume daily activities the day after the procedure.
Osseointegration
After the dental implant is placed, it takes 2 to 6 months for new bone growth to secure the screw. This process, called osseointegration, strengthens the jawbone around the implant. It anchors it securely like a natural tooth root.
Abutment Placement
A metal extension called an abutment is usually attached to the implant. This can be done during the initial surgery or in a minor procedure later with local anesthesia. Abutments link the replacement tooth to the implant.
If an abutment is added in a second procedure, the surgeon might need to cut the gum if it has grown over the implant. Initially, a healing cap covers the implant to protect it and prevent tissue growth. In the second procedure, the healing cap is removed. Then the abutment is attached to the dental implant with a screw. The gum tissue will then shape around the abutment. It takes several weeks for the gums to heal after the abutment is placed.
Tooth Placement
Once your gums heal, your dentist will create an impression of your teeth. This helps make your permanent replacement tooth fit perfectly. You can choose between fixed or removable options. For a removable tooth, it will be placed on a metal frame and connected to the abutment. This allows you to take it out at home for regular cleaning. If you choose a permanent tooth, it will be securely attached to the abutment with cement or screws.
Visit us at Cooley Smiles to learn more about dental implants. Call us at (425) 569-4545 with your inquiries.
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