Types of Dental Implants
There are three main types of dental implants:
- The root implant
- The plate form implant
- The subperiosteal implant
Root Implant
The root implant, by far the most popular, is the most effective because it mirrors the size and shape of your natural tooth, and is often as strong as your original tooth. The artificial root is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia, then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone. When the healing process is complete, you return to the dental office where the root form is fitted with the new tooth.
When you have your dental implants done here at Naperville Dental Specialists, both your surgery and tooth placement are done at the same facility, by the same dentist, Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
Plate Form Implant
The plate form implant is ideal in situations where the jawbone is not wide enough to properly support a root implant. The plate form implant is long and thin, unlike the root implant, and anchors into thin jawbones. It is inserted the same way as a root implant. In certain cases, the plate form implant is immediately fitted with the restoration without waiting for the healing process to run its course.
The subperiosteal implant is used when the jawbone has receded to the point where it can no longer support a permanent implant.
Dental Implant As a Treatment Option
If the missing tooth space has no surrounding teeth, the dentist may decide an implant is the most appropriate treatment choice. While bridges can be used to replace missing teeth, they do require structurally sound teeth to anchor to.
Post Implant Care
Although proper oral hygiene is always recommended for maintaining good dental health, it is especially important when a patient has received a dental implant. Bacteria can attack sensitive areas in the mouth when teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, thus causing gums to swell and jaw bones to gradually recede. Recession of the jawbone will weaken implants and eventually make it necessary for the implant to be removed. Patients are advised to visit their dentists at least twice a year to ensure the health of their teeth and implants. Dental implants can last for decades when given proper care.