Types of dental implants It used to be that when you needed to get implants, you had very few options to choose from. These days, though, over 60 companies manufacture dental implants. And materials to create restorations. This gives you, the patient, a lot of different options to choose from and it allows you to get the right implant for your needs. Below, you will learn about the different types of implants available, how they work, and more. Endosseous – Within the Bone A dental prosthesis (also known as an endosseous implant or fixture) is a medical procedure element that overlaps with the bone of the jaw or skull to assist a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, facial prosthesis or to act as an odontology anchor. The foundation for modern-day dental implants is a biological procedure called osseointegration where materials, such as titanium, form an intimate bond to bone. Subperiosteal – On Top Of The Bone Subperiosteal implants are much different than the procedure above. Instead, they are made from the metal framework that are attached to the top of the jawbone, and yet underneath the gum tissue. Transosteal – Through The Bone These are implants that are usually U-shaped and made of metal. The frame of the U is passed through the jaw bone and the gum tissue inside the mouth. While you do have some say in what option you would like from the above options, its essentially going to be in the hands of your dentist when it comes to the type, size and the design of the implant. When making the decision to go through with dental implants make sure that you ask as many questions as you can think of; even if it means calling them back after your consultation to ask even more questions. This is a life changing procedure – for the better of course, but its still something that you want to make sure you are comfortable with and knowledgeable about. As much as you can be anyway. So how do implants work? Continue reading below for an answer to your very good question! How Implants Actually Work Implants are a perfect option for stable support for artificial teeth. Ordinary dentures can slip and slide inside of your mouth, but when you have something like an overdenture that essentially snaps onto the metal plate, you won't have slippage, and they are more comfortable to wear. To get implants. However, your gums have to be healthy, and you need to have adequate bone to help support the implants. You also have to keep these implants healthy and treat them as you would natural teeth; this
means brushing them and also making sure that you have regular dental visits. According to the American Dental Association, the Sub and Endo implants are the safest ones to have. Oral Care Tips For Implants As mentioned above, you will have to take care of these implants, if not, what's the point? Not taking care of them can ruin the teeth, yes, but you can also have instances where you weaken the bones and gums as well which can lead to other problems down the line. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to dental implants: Practice Good Oral Routines: This means you should be flossing once daily and brushing twice daily. If you want to clean ALL of the sections of your new teeth, consider buying an inter-dental toothbrush. These will help clean in and around the areas of your implants to make sure that you are
brushing properly, but also adequately. Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken the bone structure and will contribute to the implant failure. If you are going to go through this much trouble (and money) to get brand new beautiful looking and feeling teeth, you will want to stop smoking – or at the least slowdown. Visit Your Dentist: Things like exams, check-ups and cleanings are going to be very important, not just for the time being either, but you should be checking in every six months with your dentist. Avoid Hard Foods: Obviously, this is going to be dependent on the type of implant you get because the teeth are most likely going to either be ceramic or plastic – but either way, you should try to stay away from really hard foods because they can chip your new teeth. So that means hard candies and ice.
The durability and longevity of your implants is going to depend on you and how well you take care of your brand new teeth. Make sure that you are using toothpaste that is either ADA approved, or one that is overall healthy to use.