In the past, getting dental implants was pretty straightforward since there was only one type to choose from. Nowadays, the landscape has completely changed, with estimates suggesting there are over forty different types of dental implants available.
This transformation has turned dental implants into a common procedure that dentists can perform easily. To show how much variety exists yet how simple the process can be, let’s look at some of the different types of dental implants available today.
**Single Tooth Replacements**
We’ll start with the most straightforward option: single tooth replacements. As the name implies, this involves using one implant to support one crown. It’s as simple as it sounds.
**Multiple Tooth Replacements**
Next, we have multiple tooth replacements. This option is for those missing several teeth. For example, if you need to replace an entire row of teeth, you might need between four and eight implants to do the job.
**Over-Dentures**
Over-dentures are a bit different and may not be as self-explanatory by their name. This type uses at least two implants to stabilize a denture, which in turn helps maintain the bone underneath.
Compared to standard dentures, over-dentures offer several advantages. Traditional dentures could put a lot of pressure on the bone, causing it to deteriorate over time. Over-dentures, supported by implants, offer better support and protection for the underlying bone. This treatment is especially beneficial for those who have lost all their teeth in one or both jaws. The American Dental Association even recommends it as the primary treatment for such cases.
**Temporary Bridgework**
Temporary bridgework involves the use of micro-mini implants, which are smaller and not permanent. These implants are often used alongside permanent ones to provide additional stability to the jaw and ensure that the patient always has teeth, even while waiting for their permanent implants to be completed.
This type of implant is becoming more common because the idea of being without teeth, even temporarily, is daunting and can hinder daily life. Temporary implants, though small, play a crucial role in modern dentistry.
Their small size is a good example of why there are so many variations of implants available today. Dental implants have become an essential tool for dentists, offering various options to cater to different needs.
And there you have it—an overview of the different types of dental implants, highlighting just how much the field has evolved to offer a range of solutions while keeping the procedures relatively simple.