How do dental implants work & what are the types

A dental implant is similar to a natural tooth. They are highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. Just like a natural tooth, which has two main parts (the crown that sits above the gum line and a root, which is inside the jawbone), a dental implant treatment also has two main parts. First, a dental implant matches the shape of a natural tooth crown. Second, it replaces the function of a natural tooth root. Implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material, which is accepted by the human body, so there is no chance of any infection.

For a dental implant, an opening in the jawbone is created and the implant is placed under the skin and into the bone after administering local anesthetics. During the

healing period, the bone grows to the implant surface. After it is properly healed, a post is placed inside. It is an extension to attach a crown. Finally, the crown or artificial tooth is fitted to the post. The process will take up to seven months.

Dental implants are just like natural teeth, and you should take care of it just like your normal teeth. If you do not follow proper dental hygiene, your implants will develop a coating similar to what you see on your natural teeth. This can even lead to gum infection. Keep them clean and have them regularly checked by your dentist.A number of teeth can be replaced with implants. However, dental implants can be done only if your teeth and gums are healthy. Only them the implants will successfully fuse and become strong enough to support the replacement tooth.

Dental implants are not too painful. In fact, they are easier than taking out a tooth.

Types of Implants

Endosteal Dental ImplantsThis is a two-stage surgical procedure. Endosteal implants, which look like small screws or cylinders, are fixed into the jawbone and covered with gum tissue through surgery. After the implant is healed, dental crowns are attached to the implants. This procedure will take several months.

Immediate Loading ImplantsThis can be done on the same day. The implants are fixed to the jaw bone, and dental crowns are attached to the implants on the same day itself. Sufficient bone volume and density are required for this procedure.

Subperiosteal ImplantsThis is a single stage procedure. If the patient has a thin jawbone, Subperiosteal implants

are used above the bone just below the gum tissue. After the gums are healed posts are fixed to frame that project through the gums. Replacement teeth are then fixed to the posts.

Single-Stage ImplantsThis involves a longer one-piece implant that protrudes through the gum. After the gum is healed, the post and artificial tooth are placed without additional surgery.

Mini Dental ImplantsWhen the jaw bone cannot support a traditional implant, then mini dental implants are used. It is a much less complicated procedure than a traditional implant.

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