Types of Dental Implants Used in Dentistry

Modern dentistry is using different types of dental implants that differ in shape, size and method of installation.

When selecting for a patient various types of dental implants, the physician focuses on the available size of bone at the site of the proposed implant surgery, bone tissue quality, features of bite, teeth-antagonists condition, gums and oral mucosa.

Successful integration into the bone tissue and thus the result of prosthetics depend on how properly they choose the types of dental implants.

Types of Dental Implants by Method of Installation

In accordance with the method of installation they distinguish such types of dental implants as: subperiosteal (established under the gum tissues, in the area between the periosteum and bone), transosseous or perosseous dental implants, and widely used in prosthetics endosseous dental implants, introduced into the jaw bone.

Dental Implants are Divided by Shape:

Root form dental implants
This type of dental implant is most rapidly integrated into the jaw when there is sufficient bone area. Depending on what company produces these types of dental implants, they may be conical, stepped, etc.

Most professionals prefer cylindrical or screw dental implants which are easy to install. Made in the form of a self drilling screw, root form dental implant is being firmly held in bone, preventing the development of atrophy in it.

Laminar dental implants
For installation in a narrow bone dentists use laminar dental implants. Such form seems to be quite fragile, but in reality laminar dental implants are very stable and reliable due to their considerable length.

Combined dental implants
In many cases the usage of laminar or root form dental implants does not provide the desired result of the operation, whereas the combined dental implants can cope with the tasks very well.

Combining the advantages of the root and laminar types of dental implants, combined dental implants provide to the doctor more opportunities to conduct operations with predictable results.

Subperiosteal implants
Subperiosteal implants are designed for installation in the bone tissue with severe atrophic symptoms. Being placed on the large bone surface, despite their lightness subperiosteal dental implants can cope well with the loads on the jaw when chewing.

Endodontically stabilized implants
Another type of implant material ─ endodontic endosseous implants are introduced in the jaw through the root apex, due to which the root elongates, giving necessary stability to the restoration. Since endodontically stabilized dental implants do not injure the mucous during the installation, their integration is quick and rarely accompanied by complications.

Mucosal dental implants
Not all types of dental implants are intended for introduction into the bone tissue. To improve the fixation of removable dentures mucosal dental implants are used ─ small protrusions on the basis which correspond to the artificially-formed grooves in the mucosa.

Mini dental implants
A special technology is developed for holders of prosthesis — mini dental implants. It can be done even with a slight amount of bone tissue. Relatively inexpensive mini dental implantation provides long-term secure fixation of prosthetic structure.

Installation of mini implants, which are 4 times smaller than usual rods, is held with minimal traumatization of tissues of the mouth. Usually the whole prosthetic procedure takes no more than an hour.

Longevity of dental implants
Even if the installation of dental implants is done qualitatively, to ensure the durability of prostheses one needs careful planning and implementation of manufacturing and installation of a denture. In this case, the service life of the implant may exceed 5-10 years guaranteed by physician.

Installation of dental implants from well-known manufacturers also increases the longevity of prosthesis ─ branded rods often serve their patients for 15-20 years and more.

Keeping a careful oral hygiene after the installation of dental implant, the patient extends the life of the prosthesis, while inadequate care contributes to the development of inflammation in periodontal tissues, which increases the risk of premature rejection of the implant.

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Multiple Tooth Implants

If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

What are the advantages of implant-supported bridges over fixed bridges or removable partial dentures?
Dental implants provide several advantages over other teeth replacement options. In addition to looking and functioning like natural teeth, implant-supported bridges replace teeth without support from adjacent natural teeth. Other common treatments for the loss of several teeth, such as fixed bridges or removable partial dentures, are dependent on support from adjacent teeth.

In addition, because implant-supported bridges will replace some of your tooth roots, your bone is better preserved. With a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, the bone that previously surrounded the tooth root may begin to resorb (deteriorate). Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, helping to keep the bone healthy and intact.

In the long term, implants are esthetic, functional and comfortable. Gums and bone can recede around a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, leaving a visible defect. Resorbed bone beneath bridges or removable partial dentures can lead to a collapsed, unattractive smile. The cement holding bridges in place can wash out, allowing bacteria to decay teeth that anchor the bridge. In addition, removable partial dentures can move around in the mouth and reduce your ability to eat certain foods.

How will the implants be placed?
First, implants, which looks like screws or cylinders, are placed into your jaw. Over the next two to six months, the implants and the bone are allowed to bond together to form anchors. During this time, a temporary teeth replacement option can be worn over the implant sites.

Often, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implants and attach extensions. These temporary healing caps complete the foundation on which your new teeth will be placed. Your gums will be allowed to heal for a couple of weeks following this procedure.

There are some implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this second step. These systems use an implant which already has the extension piece attached. Your periodontist will advise you on which system is best for you.

Finally, replacement teeth, or bridges, will be created for you by your dentist and attached to small metal posts, called abutments. After a short time, you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak.

Every case is different, and some of these steps can be combined when conditions permit. Your dental professional will work with you to determine the best treatment plan.

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Dental Implant Disadvantages, Problems & Complications

Dental implants provide a great alternative for replacing a missing tooth or teeth.  However, as with any minimally invasive dental procedure, there are some disadvantages and potential problems that might arise after treatment is completed.

What are Disadvantages of Dental Implants
As with anything in life there are some potential downsides to dental implants.  One of the main disadvantages of a dental implant is the cost.  As compared to other alternatives for replacing a missing tooth or teeth, cost can be quite high. With the average cost of a dental implant being about $3600, dental implants can be a costly alternative for replacing a single tooth.  Included in the price is the surgical placement of the dental implant and its restoration with a crown. Learn how spending more on a dental implant initially can save you money in the future.

Another disadvantage of a dental implant is the length of time required for healing after surgical placement of an implant.  The total treatment time can vary from approximately three months to six months.  This depends on the area where the implant is placed, the quality and quantity of healthy bone, overall health of the dental implant recipient, as well as the need for adjunct procedures like bone grafting or sinus lift.   The total treatment time for dental implant placement can be much longer than treatment time of other alternatives.

The need for a minimally invasive surgical procedure could also be considered a disadvantage.  With apprehension to dental treatment being quite common, many potential dental implant patients choose less invasive treatment to replace their missing teeth.  Dental implant placement is a simple surgery completed at the dental office and can be compared to extraction of a tooth.  As with any surgical procedure complications can occur.  We will discuss the most common ones below.

One minor disadvantage for a patient with a dental implant supported denture as opposed to a conventional denture is the need for good oral hygiene around the implant.  Excellent oral hygiene is critical for dental implant long-term success.   Dexterity issues or other oral hygiene inadequacies over time can lead to loss of supporting bone, infection, and eventual loss of the dental implant.

What problems can you encounter with dental implants
One of the most common problems that occur with dental implants is failure of the implant to integrate with surrounding bone.   This is usually indicated by a loose implant a few weeks after surgery.  The integration of the implant can be affected by factors, some of which include an infection in the dental implant recipient site, overheating of the surrounding bone, compromised blood supply, limited bone available to stabilize the dental implant, pressure being applied on the dental implant before complete healing or poor stabilization of the dental implant.

Another problem is a structural failure of a dental implant.  After the dental implant has fully integrated with bone and complete healing has occurred, a dental implant can fracture partially or completely if there is excessive pressure exerted on it.  This can occur during a traumatic episode such as a blow to the face or excessive forces exerted on the dental implant over a period of time.  A crown that is not properly calibrated or teeth grinding can cause excessive and destructive forces.  These forces can be detrimental to implants as well as natural teeth.

Prolonged pain in the area of dental implant placement can also be encountered.  After a dental implant is surgically placed in the bone the surrounding area can be tender for a few days.  This is mainly due to post surgical inflammation of the surrounding tissue.  On occasion, the pain can persist for a longer period of time or even indefinitely. The pain can be caused by chronic localized inflammation, close proximity of the dental implant to a major or even a minor nerve branch or a more severe foreign body reaction.  In these situations there are different methods of intervention.  One of the most common ones is to have the implant removed and replaced at a later date.

As with any surgery there are potential complications of placing dental implants.  Parasthesia, or numbness of a portion of a tissue can occur.  This can include the lip, tongue, cheek and teeth. This is typically a result of nerve injury due to over-preparation of the implant site.  However, in some cases this can occur due to unknown causes.  If this does occur talk to your dentist about your prognosis.

Injury to adjacent teeth can also occur during placement of the implant. This can occur during preparation of the recipient site and usually leads to drilling into an adjacent tooth.  A careful step-by-step progression during site preparation and periodic radiographs obtained during implant site preparation can eliminate this potential complication.

Most dental implant used today are made out of titanium alloy.  Titanium is a non-toxic substance, which can trigger an allergic or inflammatory reaction in certain people. As a result of a production process, titanium alloy contain traces of nickel.  This can potentially cause health problems, including hypersensitivity reaction, which can be falsely attributed to titanium. Only about 4 percent of individuals tested will show signs of an allergic reaction to titanium. The hypersensitivity reaction may show a range of symptoms, from red and itchy affected area to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The MELISA® test is the only scientifically-proven test which can objectively diagnose titanium allergy. If you are planning to have a hypersensitivity test before having a titanium dental implant placed, it is advised to find out the exact composition of the implant.

Decementation of a dental implant supported crown, although very rare, can also be encountered.  The main reason for a dental crown displacement is improper positioning of a dental implant in the bone. Biting forces or occlusal forces place pressure on the crown in areas that do not have proper support.  This causes the crown to eventually come off. If the implant crown is displaced, a new one might need to be fabricated.  This can be quite expensive since an average cost of a dental implant crown is about 1800 dollars.

One common problem with a dental implant which is caused by patient neglect is inflammation around the implant or peri-implantitis. Dental Implants are prone to gum disease just like our natural teeth.  Poor oral hygiene, lack of regular flossing and brushing can lead to chronic inflammation and gradual loss of bone around the implant.  Signs observed during the process can include spontaneous bleeding of the gums, bleeding observed during flossing, bad taste or smell in the implant area, sensitivity and mild to moderate discomfort.  Treatment of this condition can include scaling and root planing, bone grafting and removal and replacement of the dental implant.  Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can eliminate this potential complication.

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The Latest Options In Dental Implants

If you’ve had tooth loss due to a rotten tooth, an injury to the mouth, or even gingivitis there are many options available for dental implants. Dental implants are molded to match the teeth surrounding it, and it is a safe procedure that is done by professionals in a safe and friendly facility. There are so many advantages to getting dental implants, not only are there expert staff  to help you feel safe and comfortable, but dental implants can greatly improve not only your smile, but also your overall appearance. Dental implants are permanent, so you never have to worry about them falling out or having a fake appearance. It can be your little secret that your teeth are implants so everyone else can believe you have naturally beautiful teeth!

Similar to the rest of your teeth, dental implants are extremely durable, which means they can last practically forever if you care for them properly. Dental implants, unlike dentures, are also very comfortable. You can have your beautiful teeth without the hassle of having to deal with denture adhesive and denture cleaning. Dental implants greatly improve the appearance of your mouth because they look exactly like your natural teeth! They also feel like natural teeth, and function exactly the same as natural teeth do. Unlike dentures, dental implants can also improve your speech because they fit perfectly in with the rest of your teeth, while dentures can slide causing your speech to be impaired.

Dental implants are also much easier for you as far as food is concerned. Having to deal with the hassle that dentures bring during meal time can be both annoying and embarrassing. But dental implants become a natural part of your mouth, making your life easier and your self-esteem higher. There are several types of dental implants so you can find the perfect fit for your mouth.

Root form dental implants are screw implants which are molded to look like a tooth root. This implant is placed into the gums and is sealed with stitches. Plate form dental implants are put in place for those with smaller jawbones in which the dental implant is set into the jawbone. Plate form implants are purposely made to be more narrow and slim so that they can be easily fit into jawbones that are narrower.

Subperiosteal dental implants are made for those who don’t have enough mouth space for Plate or Roof form implants. These dental implants are custom made to each individual and they are set under the gums on top of the jawbone. This dental implant procedure differs from the others since it is inserted through a special method and made for smaller jaws. If you are tired of your temporary dentures or just want a permanent solution for your missing teeth, you should consider dental implants. These implants are done by professional dentists and friendly staff so you can feel comfortable and relaxed before getting that perfect, natural smile.

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Improve Your Smile With Dental Implants

Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you. That is why it is so important to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums as healthy as possible. Many people are scared of the dentist and nervous to go, but the benefits of visiting a professional dental clinic cannot be overstated. Dentists are trained to spot problems in your mouth before they become too difficult to handle. When you visit a professional dental office, you can be assured that the staff is extremely competent and well-trained. They will be able to explain everything to you and make sure you get the best care possible.

There are many cosmetic dental procedures available that can improve your smile and give you added self-confidence. One of the best cosmetic dental procedures available today is dental implants. Dental implants are placed inside a person’s mouth to take the place of teeth that have fallen out or have been damaged.

Missing teeth can make someone feel unattractive or self-conscious. Luckily, no one has to feel that way because of the technological advances in cosmetic dental procedures. Implants can restore your beautiful smile and make you feel great again. Another concern with missing teeth is that it may make your gums and mouth more sensitive to various gum diseases. Having a procedure done to repair the problem is important as these diseases are progressive and will only get worse with time.

There is no need to worry that other people will know that you have had dental work done because dental implants look virtually identical to natural teeth and will blend right in. Once a professional dentist has implanted one into your mouth, it begins to fuse with your jaw bone and instantly becomes a part of your mouth.

Dental implant procedures have a very high success when it is performed by a professional dentist who can evaluate your individual needs and provide proper care. With a reputable dentist and dental centre, your mouth should be looking great in no time. You should be sure to do everything your dentist tells you to do after you have the procedure done to ensure that the implant has ample time to graft into your mouth. Don’t waste another minute feeling unhappy with your smile. Visit a professional dental clinic today.

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Complete Dental Implant Cost Guide

If you have recently lost a tooth from tooth decay, gum disease (gingivitis), periodontal disease or from injury, you have probably considered or have been curious about dental implants. This guide will give all the facts and cost related factors which will hopefully answer most (if not all) of your questions so you can decide whether dental implants are the right choice for you.

What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root. It is inserted into the jaw to permanently or temporarily hold artificial teeth in place. It is typically made out of titanium which is biocompatible with the jaw bone. The direct fusing of bone and an implant is called osseointegration which is a special characteristic of titanium. When a tooth is lost, some bone that helped support the tooth is also lost. Dental implants help stabilize the jaw, preventing future bone loss and maintaining the jaw bone’s shape. Implants are a convenient alternative to dentures because they never have to be taken out and they feel much more natural and comfortable. They are better than traditional bridges and crowns because they aren’t just cemented in place. When mounted to implants, bridges and dentures won’t shift or slip in your mouth, which can make talking and eating easier and worry-free. This also avoids other common problems such as gagging, poor alignment and sore spots.

There are 2 main types of implants. One is called endosteal. This type is implanted directly into the jaw and holds one or more teeth in place. The other type is subperiosteal. This implant is a metal frame that is placed on top of the jaw below the gums. Posts protrude through the gums to hold the prosthesis. This type isn’t as common, but can be used for patients who have minimal jaw height or thickness.

To be qualified for an implant, one must have strong, health gums and jaw bone in order to support it and hold it in place. Routine visits to the dentist and dedicated, comprehensive oral hygiene are both required to maintain implants in the long term (no more skipping brushing your teeth now and then).

The Procedure
Before the surgery can take place, meticulous planning must be completed to identify and analyze nerves, the sinus and the shape and dimensions of the bone in and around the area of interest. During the preliminary examination, your dentist or surgeon will take x-rays of your jaw; paying specific attention to the area that requires a dental implant(s). Different scans can also be taken including a panoramic radiograph, which can show all the upper and lower teeth and bone structure to determine bone health, height and thickness. CT scans are the most accurate form of x-ray imaging to date and may also be used to analyze and determine a treatment plan. Your teeth and gums will be examined for disease and decay and treated prior to the procedure.

Getting implants is an outpatient procedure and can be performed at your local dentist’s office. The operation requires some form of anesthesia including local, general, intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide. Dentists, periodontists and oral surgeons can all perform the surgery.

The surgery itself is normally done in several stages. In the first stage, incisions are made into the gum to expose the bone. A hole is then drilled into the bone so that the implant can be placed. The implant is inserted completely into the jaw bone and lies below the gum tissue (see below). The tissue is then stitched back into place or a temporary covering is used protect the gap from forces such as chewing. As the surrounding bone and gum tissues heal, the implant bonds itself to the bone. The healing process typically takes 4-6 months.

Once the osseointegration is complete, you have to go back to get the abutment installed. The abutment is a post that penetrates through the gums and connects the replacement tooth (or crown) to the implant. The gums above the implant are reopened to install the abutment. This is another outpatient surgery and requires only local anesthesia. Once it is successfully placed, the gum is then closed up around but not over the abutment. In some cases it is possible to install both the implant and the abutment during the same surgery since research has shown that doing so has no detrimental effects as long as adequate time is given for everything to heal. In this case, it is important to note that the post will be visible and care must be taken not to apply any pressure to it during the healing process.

It takes about 2 weeks for your gums to heal before you can finish the procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there will be swelling, bruising, minor pain and bleeding during the healing process.

Next the artificial tooth is made from impressions of your teeth and a model of your bite to ensure that it fits in naturally. Then it is attached to the abutment (it can take several appointments to get the fit just right). A removable prosthesis (or bridge) is conventional if you had more than one tooth replaced. It is also more affordable then implanting each tooth separately as it only takes one implant on either side to span an area and hold several artificial teeth in place. It is similar to dentures, but the difference is that it snaps into place for a more permanent and natural fit.

Advantages and Risks
There are many advantages to tooth implants. It is a permanent solution to tooth loss that is more durable and stable than alternatives such as conventional dentures, crowns or bridges which can make it easier to speak and eat. They also fit more comfortably and naturally and even look better cosmetically which can improve your self-esteem. Convenience is another huge advantage as they do not need to be removed, cleaned or kept in place by messy adhesives. They also improve oral health by making it easier to clean between teeth and they do not require modifications to nearby healthy teeth in order to be installed.

The risks are minimal as problems are rare and are often easily treated. They include but are not limited to: the bone not integrating with the implant, bleeding, injury or numbness of the nearby muscles or sinus cavity due to nerve damage and the chance of infection if the implant breaks, the crown becomes loose or a lack of proper oral hygiene. Success rates depend on a number of factors including the size and strength of the jaw bone and where in the jaw the implant is placed, but overall they are well above 90% (up to 98% if they are properly cared for) and are always improving.

 

Average Cost and Factors
Tooth implants are typically more expensive than more traditional alternatives. The cost depends on a number of factors including what dentist or surgeon you go to, the type of implant and procedure, how many and which teeth you need replaced, how many implants are required to support these teeth, how much insurance coverage you have and your geographical location. Once you get an examination and talk with your dentist, they will be able to provide you with a price estimate. A single tooth implant typically costs $1000 to $3,000. However, if additional procedures such as bone grafts, extractions and extensive imaging and/or modelling are required, the price can easily inflate to $5,000 to $10,000. Your dentist will be able to give you an idea of what costs you are looking at after a preliminary examination. An implant is only part of the process though. An abutment and crown for a single tooth adds an extra $500 to $3,000. The average total cost paid by consumers for all procedures, abutment, crown and implant is $4,250. A 3 or 4 tooth bridge mounted on two implants can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 (the average being $8,500). A full set of upper and lower implant supported dentures ranges from $25,000 to $95,000 (average of $34,000), depending heavily on the condition of your gums, jaw bone and existing teeth (if any).

When getting a quote, remember that the total fee includes various aspects of the procedure. There is the cost of the procedure and implant, the cost of the abutment and the cost of the crown or dentures. There could be added charges for the scans, anesthetic and modelling as well.

Insurance Coverage
The first thing you should do is to check with your insurance company to see if implants are covered on your plan. If it isn’t, then you can talk with your dentist’s office to find out if they provide or can recommend other payment plans/options. Remember that your dentist is there for you and will help you in any way that they and give you all the information you need so don’t be hesitant to ask. Unfortunately, many insurance plans cover 10% or less of the total cost of implants, but provide significantly more coverage for more traditional solutions such as dentures. This is often because most companies classify implants and a cosmetic procedure. Surgical costs can be covered by health insurance in some instances.

While losing a tooth can be stressful – remember that there are a number of options available to you, including dental implants. It might seem scary when reading about it, but there is minimal pain, risk and discomfort and the results are lasting and natural looking. Talk to your dentist about implants if you think they might be the solution for you.

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What are instant implants?

Instant implants are dental implants that have a slightly modified base structure, thus needing less healing time and less wait before fitting the false tooth. Instead of waiting for 2-3 months, instant dental implants can be implanted at our London dental practice; the recovery time is only 2-3 weeks and you can have a new crown and a new smile with just two visits! Get the same high quality dental implants that you already know, but with significantly less wait!

What is the difference?
Instant versions of all of the leading brand dental implants are available. The difference is that the instant implants have a winged screw, thus eliminating the need for the jaw to grow around the implant.

Step by step
A preliminary check up and x-ray of your jaw needs to be taken, to determine if your jaw is suitable for this treatment. We accept x-rays you may already have, if they are no older than 3 months. If you are a candidate, then after the extraction of the tooth that you need replaced the dental implant can be inserted immediately! A temporary crown is fitted onto the dental implant in the same visit. An impression will be taken of your teeth, and in just a couple of weeks your final dental crown will be ready to mount on your implant!

Not everyone’s jaw is suitable for such implantation, but there is no need to worry! Regular dental implantation works just as well, with the same level of quality and durability. Instant implantation takes place at our London clinic only. As with all of our treatments, instant dental implants have a higher rate of success the better your oral hygiene is. 

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