Bridges and dentures are no longer the only available options when the patient is missing a tooth. Dental implants have become a mainstream dental procedure and a viable alternative to bridges and dentures when looking for a tooth replacement. However, not all implants are the same since there are different types of dental implants. That is why in this article we are going to talk about the three most popular implant-based treatment options in the market, their advantages, and their disadvantages, and their materials.
But… What is a dental implant?
Dental implants (or the field of implantology) is a relatively new but constantly evolving science and dental treatment. It being a new field does not mean that current implants will go obsolete, it does mean that this field is evolving to adapt to certain patients that are not candidates to the treatment right now.
In few words, it can be stated that implants are titanium (or zirconia) posts that work as artificial tooth roots. A dental implant will fuse with the jawbone to help restore the functionality of a natural tooth. Implants usually have three parts: the titanium implant (the root), the abutment, and a dental crown, which, as stated, help restore the functionality and aesthetics of natural teeth.
Types of dental implants
Single dental implants
Usually, implants are placed to replace a single missing tooth. Here the implant replaces the whole structure of a single tooth.
Implant-supported bridge
When a patient has multiple missing teeth next to each other, then an implant-supported bridge is considered. An implant-supported bridge helps restore multiple teeth with fewer implant posts, which can be cheaper and more practical than restoring every tooth’s post.
Implant-retained dentures
When patients miss most (if not all) of their teeth, they can get implant-retained dentures. These implant dentures can
Types of dental implants materials
Dental implants are made from two main materials, which are the following:
Titanium implants: These are the most common implant materials. They are biocompatible with human tissue and have no side effects.
Zirconia implants: Zirconia implants are new to dentistry; they are also biocompatible with human tissue and can be a better option for some people. Still, others do not like them as much as the titanium ones.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
The only way to know if you are a good dental implant candidate is by visiting our offices at Somos Dental. However, you need to take into consideration the following factors:
Age: Implants work better if placed in adults who have already fully grown and developed (over 21 years old).
Chronic illnesses: Certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes do not allow people to get implants.
Jawbone volume: Sometimes, there is not enough bone to get an implant. If this is the case, other kinds of treatments will be advised.
Where to know if I am a good candidate for a dental implant?
If you want to know if you are a good candidate for a dental implant, or if you are looking for a place to get dental implants in the Phoenix Metro area, you can come to Somos Dental. In Somos Dental you can get a first free diagnostic appointment (which includes X-rays) to know if you are a candidate for a dental implant. You can fill our online form or call us at our number 623-469-7463; you can also visit us at any of our six locations at downtown Phoenix, Mesa, Desert Sky Mall, Camelback, Laveen, and Avondale.
