By: Dr. Lahiru Chandraweera

November 11, 2022

Which Dental Implant Type Would Suit Me?

Dental implants are a popular and versatile treatment option for replacing missing teeth. But with so many different types of dental implants available, it can be difficult to know which one suits your needs.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of dental implants and help you decide which is right for you. So if you’re considering dental implants, keep reading!

Endosteal Dental Implants vs. Subperiosteal Dental Implants

There are two main classifications of dental implants: endosteal dental implants and subperiosteal dental implants.

Both of these types of implants use titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the bone.

Endosteal dental implants are the more popular choice because they offer several advantages over subperiosteal dental implants, such as:

On the other hand, subperiosteal dental implants may be recommended for patients who:

Ultimately, the type of dental implant that is right for you will depend on your individual needs and situation. However, both types of dental implants can be an effective way to replace missing teeth.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

There are four main types of tooth implants: Single-Tooth, Implant-Supported Bridges, Implant-Supported Dentures, and All-on-Four. They vary in several aspects, such as material composition, lifespan, appearance, benefits, and many more.

  • Single-Tooth Dental Implants
    Single-tooth dental implants are the most common type of implant. The implant is composed of three parts: a titanium screw that is placed into the jawbone during dental surgery and acts as an artificial tooth root, an abutment (connector) that is placed on top of the screw after healing has occurred, and a dental crown that is attached to the abutment. The average lifespan of these metal posts is about 10-15 years, with special care.

    The entire implant placement process, including recovery time, usually takes at least 6-8 months from start to finish. But once the dental crown is securely in place, they are barely noticeable and look just like real teeth. Benefits include being able to chew food z, improved speech, and increased confidence.

  • Implant-Supported Bridges
    Implant-supported bridges are similar to single-tooth implants, except that multiple artificial teeth (pontics) are supported by two or more implants. The number of pontics will depend on how many teeth are missing.

    Because they are supported by implants, they do not rely on other teeth for support and therefore put less strain on them. They also look and function like natural teeth.

    Implant-supported bridges have a slightly shorter lifespan than single-tooth implants at about 5-7 years but can be longer with proper care.

  • Implant-Supported Dentures
    Implant-supported dentures are different from traditional ones in that they are not removable and are held in place by implants. They can be used to replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw—or both!

    Implant-supported dentures tend to be more stable and feel more natural than traditional dentures because they are not as likely to slip or move around in the mouth. They also preserve bone mass in the jaw, which helps to keep the facial structure looking young and healthy. However, implant-supported dentures require more surgery than traditional dentures because multiple implants must be placed in the jawbone before the denture can be attached.

  • All-on-Four Dental Implants
    All-on-Four dental implants get their name because they only require four implants per arch (upper or lower jaw). This type of tooth implant is used when there is minimal bone mass remaining in the jawbone—which often happens when tooth loss occurs due to periodontal disease.

    All-on-Four dental implants feel natural and stable because they are anchored directly into the healthy jawbone. There is also no need for a removable appliance, making them much easier to care for than traditional dentures.

When considering tooth implant options, it’s important to consult with a dental professional to determine which option is right for you based on your needs and circumstances. All four types of implants have unique benefits that can make a big difference in your quality of life!

Cost Comparison of Dental Implant Types

There are several options available for tooth implants, and the price can vary depending on the type of implant you choose.

Single-tooth dental implants are usually the most affordable option, costing between $5,000 and $7,000. An implant-supported bridge, costing between $6,300 and $9,500, is a slightly more expensive option.

For patients who need dentures, an implant-supported denture may be a good option, with an average cost of $15,000-$18,000. All-on-four dental implants are specialised tooth implant procedures that can be quite costly. The most expensive option and can cost between $16,000 and $42,000.

The overall cost of dental implants, no matter which type, is influenced by several factors, such as:

While the cost of tooth implants can be high, it is important to consult a dental professional to determine which option is suited for you.

Which Dental Implant Will Suit Me?

Tooth implant options are not one size fits all, and the type of tooth implant that will suit you depends on several factors. The first step is to consult your dentist to see if tooth implants are right for you. If they are, your dentist will recommend the type of denture for your case.

A subperiosteal implant is a good option if you have insufficient jaw bone density but do not want to undergo a bone grafting procedure. Meanwhile, endosteal dental implants are recommended for patients with adequate bone density and those with inadequate bone density but are willing to undergo bone grafting. These implants are implanted directly into the natural jawbone, providing a strong foundation for your artificial teeth.

As for the type of implant, it would depend on the number of teeth you need to replace. Your dentist can advise you on which type would suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

Many tooth implant options are available today, and it can be confusing trying to figure out which one will suit you. Ultimately, the type of implant that is right for you will depend on your needs and situation. A dentist can help you make this decision.

Hills Family Dental Centre offers various tooth implant options to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for a single-tooth implant or an implant-supported denture, our team can help you find the right solution.

We understand that making this decision can be difficult, so we encourage you to book an appointment through our website or get in touch with us today to learn more about our tooth implants and how they can benefit you. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions

Dental implants enjoy a high success rate. They offer many benefits, too. Some benefits of implants include the following:

  1. Dental implants are strong and durable. They are a long-lasting teeth replacement option. With proper care, they can last for two decades or more.

  2. Another benefit of implants is that they look and feel like natural teeth. This can help you feel more confident about your smile.

  3. Dental implants can help improve your speech. Dentures can sometimes slip out of place and cause you to mumble your words. Dental implants are secured in place so you can speak clearly and confidently.

  4. Dental implants can help you eat and chew more easily. Dentures can sometimes make it difficult to chew properly because they don’t fit as snugly as natural teeth. Dental implants will give you the chewing power you need to enjoy all your favorite foods again.

  5. Dental implants can help preserve bone and prevent tooth loss. When your natural teeth are missing, the bone that holds them in place can deteriorate. This can result in bone loss. Dental implants will help preserve the bone structure, prevent further tooth loss, and promote good oral health.

Getting dental implants is a big decision. Be sure to talk to your dentist about all your tooth implant options to find the solution to your needs.

Anyone with missing teeth or at risk of tooth loss is a good candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are ideal for:

  • Those who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, gum disease, or decay
  • People who need long-term replacements for removable dentures
  • Patients looking to improve their smile and self-confidence
  • People who want to restore their ability to eat, speak, and chew normally

Yes, dental implants can be replaced if necessary. Some instances warrant implant replacement, including the following:

  • If dental implant failure occurs due to infection or gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend replacing the implant with a new one.

  • If the dental implant becomes loose or uncomfortable.

  • If the implant becomes damaged due to trauma or an accident. In the case of broken implants, the implant may need to be replaced with a new one. In some cases, the implant can be repaired instead of replaced.

  • If the jaw bone becomes weak or deteriorates over time. This can affect the stability of a dental implant.

Finally, even if a dental implant is properly cared for, the prosthesis over the implant may still need to be replaced after a certain time due to normal wear and tear. Depending on various factors, implants can last anywhere from 5-25 years before needing to be replaced.

It is important to remember that dental implants are not permanent fixtures. They require ongoing maintenance so that they stay in good condition.

Only an experienced board-certified dentist or oral surgeon can perform dental implant surgery.

It is important to have a knowledgeable and licensed professional handle your surgical procedure as there are potential risks involved, such as:

  • Nerve damage
  • Infection
  • Sinus problems
  • Damage to adjacent teeth

The success of a dental implant partly depends on the skill of the dental implant expert performing the dental procedure and the patient’s commitment to proper aftercare and oral hygiene.