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3 Types of Dental Implants and What They Mean

For whatever reason, accident, old age, or poor dental hygiene, some teeth need to be replaced. Maybe the tooth fell out a while ago and you just cannot hide that gap in your teeth any more, or perhaps the tooth is just too rotted out and needs to be replaced. Thankfully, dentistry has come a long way and patients like you now have some options when it comes to dental restoration and dental implants. Dr. Liberman and her team are prepared to help you find a dental implant and procedure that works for you. Now let’s take a look at the different types of dental implants.

Endosteal Dental Implants

Endosteal dental implants work by using a small post that fits directly into the jawbone. The gums are opened up so the jawbone is exposed, allowing a little hole to be drilled into the bone. Once the hole is drilled, the post for the implant is secured into the hole. Once the implant is posted into the hole, the gums are then stitched back up around the implant. It takes about 6 months for the jaw to fully heal after this procedure. After that time, the patient will come back for two more procedures to put crowns or bridges onto the implant.

Subperiosteal Dental Implants

Unlike endosteal dental implants, subperiosteal dental implants require only one visit to the dentist. Subperiosteal dental implants are for patients who lack the sufficient jawbone that endosteal implants require. The abutment, which is a small metal stud, is placed right on top of the gum and jawbone. The abutment is not drilled and secured into the jawbone. Over time, however, the abutment does secure itself to the jaw.

Zygomatic Implants

These implants, zygomatic implants, are not placed in the jaw or gums, like we saw in the other two types of dental implants. Zygomatic implants are secured into the cheekbone. This type of dental implant is used in cases where the patient lacks a strong enough jaw for endosteal or subperiosteal dental implants. As you might imagine, this type of dental implant requires a surgical procedure that is a bit more complicated than other types of dental implants. For this reason, not all dentists perform this procedure and might have a patient sent to a dentist who specializes in it.

Which Dental Implant is Right for Me?

After reading about these three different types of dental implants and procedures, you might not be sure which procedure is right for you. And that is fine. If you think you are a candidate for dental implants - you are missing teeth or know a tooth needs replacing - then do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Liberman at Great Neck Dental Care. Dr. Liberman and her team will treat you with compassion and patience, as we know that dental implants can be an involved and trying procedure. Dr. Liberman’s experience and dedication will provide you with the absolute best care in the Great Neck and Nassau County area.