For those looking for a long-term solution for their missing teeth, dental implants top the chart. These state-of-the-art prosthetic teeth mimic the structure and function of natural teeth, providing all-round benefits for health and aesthetics. The dental implants Los Angeles clinics help you in this endeavor. With the widest selection of options, one can choose the best dental implants to address specific needs and concerns. Let’s understand the types of dental implants and how each one works:
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are an orthodontic procedure that involves replacing a missing tooth/teeth with a custom-made prosthetic structure. Dental implants add to the functional value. Chewing gets earlier and it helps keep the integrity of the dental structure intact. From the cosmetic point of view, it not only helps fill the gaps left by missing teeth but also helps overcome concerns like misaligned, chipped, and crooked teeth.
How Dental Implants Work?
The procedure is invasive and typically carried out in two stages. The first phase requires fixing a metal root into the jawbone. The metal root, or the post, is crafted from titanium or other biocompatible materials like zirconia. The implant post is surgically placed into the jaw. Over time, the metal root fuses with the bone (the process known as osseointegration). This provides a stable and secure base for the dental crown that is to be screwed atop. The dental crown of the prosthesis is the visible portion of the tooth. Therefore, it is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of the natural teeth.
The entire procedure usually takes up to six to eight months to complete and gives almost near-permanent results with proper upkeep and by maintaining post-procedure dental hygiene.
Types Of Dental Implants
Cosmetic dentistry clinics offering dental implants in Los Angeles customize their services according to the needs and preferences of the patient. The choice of dental implants primarily depends upon two factors:
- Jawbone health and stability
- Number of missing teeth
Jawbone Health And Stability
Jawbone health and stability are some of the pivots on which the overall success of the dental implant procedure depends. The cosmetic dental surgeon may recommend one of the following procedures after examining the overall jawbone health, the underlying bone structure, and its innate strength to withstand the drill of the dental procedure.
Endosteal Implants – These are the most common types of dental implants. Patients who have a healthy jawbone with no signs of gum disease are the perfect candidates for endosteal implants. This is because the titanium/ zirconia metal post is to fuse with the jawbone during the healing process to create a stable foundation for dental restoration. Endosteal implants are a viable option for both single-tooth replacement and multiple teeth implants. It can also support a full arch dental implant.
Subperiosteal Implants – Patients with inadequate jawbone strength cannot hold the endosteal implants. For such patients, Los Angeles dental implants particularly target the area under the gum tissue. The subperiosteal implants are made to rest on or above the jawbone. The structure of the subperiosteal implants primarily comprises a metal framework that replicates the shape of the jawbone. The replacement teeth are attached to the frame to make up for the dental gaps.
Number Of Missing Teeth
Patients may have one or more missing teeth. Dental implants are a viable option to cover up gaps left by missing teeth.
Single Tooth Dental Implants – For people with one missing tooth, single-tooth dental implants are the most viable option in terms of cost and treatment outcomes. Depending upon the overall oral health and hygiene, the dental surgeon may choose between endosteal and subperiosteal implants.
Implant-Supported Bridge – People with several missing teeth benefit from an implant-supported bridge. The treatment involves securing and anchoring the implant in two places. The prosthetic teeth are attached to the bridge which is screwed to the dental post.
Full Arch Dental Implant – People looking to restore their entire upper or lower jaw are the best candidates for full arch dental implants. These are also known as full-mouth dental implants and involve strategically placing a series of implants within the jawbone to support an entire arch of teeth. The overdenture is removable for periodic cleaning and dental examination.
Assessing The Need For Dental Bone Grafting
Adequate bone volume is critical to the success of dental implants. The need for dental bone grafting will arise in cases where bone volume and density are inadequate. It is pertinent to mention here that the expenses incurred on bone grafting are over and above the cost of dental implants. This is a prerequisite and a preparation for the dental implant procedure and is recommended only after a careful evaluation of the overall dental needs.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants are one of the best restorative procedures for replacing missing teeth. The procedure enjoys a success rate as high as 98% over a ten year span. But a lot of factors contribute to this remarkably high success rate. Among others, the skill of the clinical professional is the key. Personal Dental Office is one of the leading dental implant centers that has helped scores of patients. The high satisfaction level among these patients speaks volumes of the quality of work and commitment of this center. Book an appointment to understand how and what type of dental implants would serve you best.
