What are Dental Implants?

They are small titanium metal posts that replace missing teeth. Dental implants are unique from other tooth replacement restorations since they replace the roots first, before restoring teeth’ enamels. The better news is that dental implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss.

Different Types of Dental Implants

When considering the different types of implants, our dentist in Satsuma, AL 36572 compares them based on the number of teeth they can replace. Ideally, you can replace one or many of your missing teeth with dental implants. In that case, the types of dental implants you should consider are:

1) Single-tooth Implants

They are ideal for replacing one tooth at a time. Over a single implant, the dentist places a dental crown to complete the procedure.

2) Multiple-tooth Implants

If you have more than one missing tooth, the dentist can incorporate multiple-tooth implants to replace them. Ideally, the dentist will crown these implants with a dental bridge or a partial denture.

3) Full-mouth Implants

They are suited for toothless patients. When you lose all your natural teeth, the dentist will employ the all-on-4 implant technique to replace them. instead of getting an implant for each of your lost teeth, the dentist strategically installs between 4 and 10 implants in your jawbone. Afterward, (s)he places a denture over the implants to crown them ad complete the procedure.

Aside from the above categories of dental implants, you can pick your implant based on the following types:

4) Endosteal Implants

They are screw-like metal posts put into the jawbone to support the artificial replacement tooth. These dental implants are the most common types, ideal for when you have dentures or dental bridges.

5) Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are implants that rest on top of the jawbone. The procedure involves a metal framework that reinforces the stability of the false teeth.

6) Zygomatic Implants

They are implants that dentists place on the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. It is the most complex type of dental implant for replacing teeth, yet has high success rates.

Procedures & Benefits of Different Types of Dental Implants

a) Endosteal Implants

-> Procedure:

An implant dentist begins by cutting open the gums to access the jawbone for drilling. (S)he will drill a hole in the jawbone to match the size of the titanium metal post. Afterward, the dentist will suture your gums, allowing you to heal before placing a crown, bridgework, or denture on a separate dental visit.

=> Benefits:

1. They are readily available since they are the most common type of dental implant.


2. They look and function like natural teeth


3. They do not require special maintenance – you can care for them the same way you do your natural teeth

b) Subperiosteal Implants

-> Procedure:

The implant dentist near you will make a small incision on your gums, exposing the jawbone beneath. However, the dentist will place a metal plate before suturing your gums instead of drilling your jawbone. In this case, the implant rests above the jawbone.

=> Benefits:

1. They offer added support to dentures and dental bridges – particularly for patients without enough healthy bone tissue.


2. They offer alternatives to patients who cannot get standard endosteal implants because of jawbone health.


3. You can skip undergoing bone grafting surgery


4. They are ideal for multiple-tooth replacement, especially in one area of your mouth.

c) Zygomatic Implants

-> Procedure:

They are usually about 3 to 5 times longer than a traditional endosteal implant. Therefore, a dentist must install them at an angle, targeting the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. The dentist identifies the right angle to place the implant in the zygomatic bone while avoiding the sinuses.

=> Benefits:

1. A higher eligibility rate for patients – since the health of your jawbone will not necessarily disqualify you from the treatment.


2. No need for bone grafting surgery


3. They offer sturdier and more solid support due to their length and angle.


4. The procedure is less invasive than other procedures.

Visit an Implant Dentist Near You

Dental implants are incredible restorations for permanent tooth replacement, regardless of the type you choose. However, ready yourself for a long treatment timeline that will require a lot of downtimes to heal and recover. You will achieve the best outcome when you liaise with the best implant dentist. Are you looking to get dental implants near Saraland, AL? Call or set an appointment with us at Satsuma Family Dental to get dental implants in Satsuma, AL 36572!