The Different Types of Dental Implants & Materials
Dental implants may be the largest and smartest investment you will ever make in your mouth. As technology improves, different kinds of implants have been designed and thoroughly tested.
With a variety of implant options now available, our Sarnia dentists will ensure they provide you with a customized solution that is tailored to your needs and will fulfill your expectations. Dental implants are the ideal way for replacing missing teeth.
Endosteal Dental Implants
Typically when you hear about a dental implant, they are referring to an “endosteal implant”, which is most commonly placed in dentistry.
This style of implant is bone-mounted, which is anchored directly within your own bone without requiring additional material. Don’t be worried….bone has no nerve endings, as always Dr. Davis will ensure your comfort at all times!
During this treatment, a sterile post (implant) is gently positioned into your own bone. Over a period of several weeks, your body will make remodeled bone and fuse tightly to the new “root.” Endosteal implants are ideal when a single tooth is missing. Complete integration usually occurs within 4-6 months, then is able to be restored with a beautiful porcelain crown by Dr. Davis.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Sometimes, unfortunately, the quality of bone present is insufficient, which compromises long term success. Not to worry, subperiosteal implants may be the solution for you!
These types of implants are inserted into the gum tissue (the periosteum) but stop just above the jaw bone, and are connected together by a metal bar. This technique is ideal when covering a large surface area. Typically, these implants are restored with dentures, replacing multiple missing teeth with a secure and stable result.
Posts (abutments) are secured to the implants, which extend above the gingiva (gums). These posts are used in junction with attachments (bonded into denture) to gain retention.
Different Types of Dental Implant Materials
In addition to different types of dental implants, they are also available in various materials. Again, during your consultation, Dr. Karen Davis will help determine which of these solutions is best for you!
Titanium Dental Implants
Titanium implants are the favoured choice of material for implant dentistry today. Titanium is proven and continues to have a very high success rate with lasting reliable results. Titanium is also used in other types of surgeries, such as joint replacement. Both dentists and patients love the long-term benefits of titanium dental implants.
Zirconia / Ceramic Dental Implants
In an effort to address the concern that titanium implants may not always be the best solution for aesthetic reasons (very rare), the zirconia dental implant was developed. Commonly referred to as a ceramic implant because of their tooth-like color, zirconia implants are very strong and biocompatible.
Zygomatic Dental Implants
Zygomatic dental implants were designed specifically for patients who have too much bone loss and are unable to receive an implant even if they were to undergo a bone grafting procedure.
Zygomatic implants are very long and when they are placed, they tilt at a precise angle so that they enter the cheekbone, rather than the jaw. The bone in this area is very dense and provides excellent support for removable restorations like partials or dentures. Zygomatic implants are very rarely required.
Porcelain Crowns
After complete integration of the implant has occurred into the bone, you are now ready to proceed with the next phase you have been waiting for “your new tooth”. Dr. Karen Davis will fabricate a custom CEREC crown chairside. A crown is the restoration that replaces your natural tooth that was lost, as the implant itself is simply the “root” portion that supports it.
An attachment called the “abutment” will be cemented to the internal of your crown, allowing a passageway for Dr. Davis to connect your crown and top of implant together. Lastly, the abutment “screw” is placed, which secures the implant and crown together. After final seating is confirmed with a radiograph, an invisible composite filling will be placed to seal the access opening.
Crowns are also made from different types of material. At Dr. Karen Davis Dentistry, porcelain is preferred. There are several types of porcelain, most commonly used is Emax or Zirconia.
When selecting which material to use for your dental implant crown, we’ll consider both the functional and aesthetic appearance of the area. With multiple options available, Dr. Karen Davis will ensure the right material for your smile!
Where Do I Go For Dental Implants In Sarnia?
When it comes to having dental implants in Sarnia, please don’t cut corners and leave your treatment up to just anyone. Investigate and understand what your needs are and what is available for you! For state-of-the-art restorations and techniques, visit Dr. Karen Davis Dentistry. We offer everything that you’re looking for! Don’t wait any longer living with missing teeth. Our team looks forward to being a part of your smile transformation! Call today for your complimentary consultation!
