Different Types of Dental Implants

Different Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants have changed the game when it comes to replacing damaged or missing teeth. Prior to the development of dental implants, patients were limited in their options but dental implants have opened up a whole new realm of possibilities. Dental implants look, chew, and feel just like normal teeth, with the average individual unable to tell the difference between a dental implant and real teeth. Part of what makes dental implants so effective is that they are customized for each and every patient, making sure their replacement teeth perfectly match their existing teeth. Part of the fitting process is choosing the right kind of dental implants, as there are two different types of dental implants. Learn about the different types of dental implants from the implant experts at University Dental in San Diego, and if you have any further questions, contact us today by calling (619) 473-2565.

The Two Types of Dental Implants

There are generally two different types of dental implants that dentists use to replace missing or damaged teeth. Patients will either receive Endosteal dental implants or Subperiosteal dental implants, depending on the situation.

1. Endosteal Dental Implants

One of the types of dental implants are Endosteal dental implants. Endosteal implants consist of titanium screws that are surgically placed into the patient’s jawbone. Once the titanium implant is placed, temporary teeth will be placed on top of the implant. However, Endosteal dental implants are a two-stage process and the temporary teeth act as a placeholder until your mouth has fully healed. Once your mouth has healed, the permanent dental implants will be placed in a second minor procedure, giving you beautiful and flawless teeth. Endosteal is the most common type of dental implant, however it requires patients to have a healthy jawbone in order to support the implant.

2. Subperiosteal Dental Implants

The second type of dental implant are Subperiosteal dental implants. Subperiosteal dental implants substitute the titanium screws of Endosteal dental implants for a metal framework, and instead of screwing the implant into the jawbone the implant is instead placed on top of the bone. Also, instead of the implant being placed deep below the patient’s gums the Subperiosteal implant is exposed, allowing it to hold the crown. Since the procedure is a little less invasive, it can usually be performed in only one stage as opposed to spread out over two different stages. In general, the subperiosteal dental implant is only used with patients who have weak or damaged jawbones, as any structural issues in the jawbone can make Endosteal dental implants potentially hazardous.

Endosteal and Subperiosteal Dental Implants at University Dental

Only a dental implant specialist can determine which type of dental implant will work best for you. At University Dental in San Diego, one of our specialists will perform a dental implant consultation to determine if Endosteal or Subperiosteal dental implants will work better for you. Once a determination is made, our team will get to work replacing your missing or damaged teeth with beautiful new teeth. If you are interested in learning more or would like to schedule a free consultation, contact University Dental today by calling (619) 473-2565.

Read more about All on 4 dental implants and All on 6 dental implants