A missing tooth can be stressful. It impacts negatively on your self-confidence and potentially leads to other dental problems. Furthermore, it can hinder eating and speech, too, depending on the severity of the problem.
Unlike our bones and skin, once we have reached adulthood, missing teeth do not regrow. Even if you do not mind the gap, it will create other dental problems; leaving the gap unattended should not be an option.
But do not be overly distressed should this dental problem befall you. There are several solutions, and the solution closest to natural teeth is dental implants. It involves securing a porcelain crown, which resembles a natural tooth, into a post made of titanium that has been embedded into or secured unto the jawbone.
Types of Dental Implants
Broadly, there are two types of dental implants:
Endosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal dental implants are the most common. They are most suitable for wide and dense jaws.
Here, screws replace the roots of a tooth. They are drilled into the jaw bone, which places them below the gum. A post is connected to the screws. The artificial tooth sits on the post.
Subperiosteal Implants
The dentist will recommend subperiosteal implants if you have a shallow jaw bone. A metal framework is secured under the gum and above the jaw bone, unlike endosteal.
Subperiosteal implants are just as secure and long-lasting as endosteal implants. But the procedure is time-consuming and delicate.
Other Dental Implant Categories
Dental implants can be further classified into the following. Knowing what they are can help you decide on the type of dental implant most suitable for you.
Standard Dental Implants
As the name suggests, they are straightforward dental implants. It does not matter whether you need one or more artificial teeth implanted – the procedure remains the same.
If more than one missing tooth needs to be replaced, the choice is between inserting more than one implant or larger implants.
And, if the gap is narrow, you can consider mini or micro-implants. They allow for smaller screws to be implanted to host the artificial tooth.
Fixed Bridgework
When you are faced with the need to replace multiple missing teeth, fixed bridgework should be considered.
Here, the fixed bridgework does not rely on the remaining teeth for support. Instead, dental implants provide support. This distinguishes it from standard bridges.
Dentures
If you think of dentures, you might imagine an elderly person with a glass next to their bed to keep the dentures before turning in for the night. It’s not a pretty sight!
But today, dentures can be a permanent fixture as they can be supported with implants. Special attachments are in place to reduce movement and discomfort.
With permanent dentures, you do not need to remove them to be cleaned. You are very unlikely to misplace or drop and break them! Moreover, dentures can be made to resemble your natural teeth. It does wonders for your self-confidence.
Temporary Dental Implants
Temporary dental implants are typically used in dental emergencies or when your gums need more time to heal. It lets you carry on with your everyday living as you wait for a permanent solution.
Which Type of Dental Implant Should You Get?
While a thorough dental examination will be undertaken by your dentist, below are three other factors you will need to consider. They are:
Age
Generally, you are a candidate for a dental implant if you have reached the age when physical growth and development have ceased. It is typically discouraged in teens or younger children as their facial structure may not be fully developed yet.
Health
Dental implants are surgical procedures. Hence, you must be in a good state of health to undergo it. Dental implants may not be a viable option if you suffer from any gum disease. Your dentists will conduct a thorough health check before recommending you for dental implants.
Bone
The surrounding bones are needed to fuse and support the implants. If the gap has been left unattended for too long, the surrounding bones become susceptible to deterioration or other related gum diseases. It will weaken them. They will become a liability more than help in the procedure.
Why Not Consider Dental Implants?
A survey conducted amongst 1000 adults aged 18 and above revealed that 9 out of 10 who were satisfied with their smiles rated their self-confidence as excellent. It’s a clear demonstration of the importance of having a complete set of teeth. Dental implants have made this possible.
With dental implants, you won’t have to endure the embarrassment of missing or damaged teeth. Damaged teeth will negatively impact your self-confidence, but it places you at risk of other dental problems.
So, bring back your smile and confidence with a dental implant. Book a consultation here.