Understanding the Different Types of Dental Implant Options

Getting dental implants is the absolute best tooth replacement option. And fortunately, as your dentist in Fort Collins, CO, will tell you, there are different types of dental implants. So, if one kind won’t work for you, there are other options that might.

The Most Commonly Used Dental Implants – Endosteal Implants

Endosteal dental implants in Fort Collins, CO, are the most commonly used implants on the market. This is because they have the highest success rate. Endosteal implants are small titanium (usually but not always) posts/screws that are implanted directly into your jawbone. Bone forms around the posts, and the rest of the artificial tooth structure is built on top of them.

Subperiosteal Implants and Why They’re Used

Subperiosteal dental implants don’t use implanted titanium posts. Subperiosteal implants are actually placed on top of or above your jawbone. These are usually only used when someone doesn’t have enough bone to support an endosteal dental implant.

A Popular Dental Implant Option – All-On-4 Dental Implants

People seem to love the all-on-4 dental implant option. An all-on-4 implant is a combination of dentures and dental implants. With all-on-4s, your dentist will strategically place four implants into your jaw. Those four implants will hold an entire arch of artificial teeth (dentures) in place.

Overdentures – A Great Alternative to Traditional Dentures

Overdentures are placed on top of dental implants. These give your dentures more support than traditional dentures have. Overdentures are removable dentures.

Implant-Supported Bridges and When They’re Used

Implant-supported bridges are a great option for people who only have a few missing teeth but don’t have enough jawbone to support a bunch of implants. Implant-supported bridges are just like traditional bridges, except they sit on top of dental implants instead of your natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges are not removable (except by your dentist).

Which Dental Implant Option Is Right for You?

Deciding which dental implant option is right for you will mainly depend on your budget and the condition of your oral health. But don’t worry; your dentist will go over everything with you and help you make that determination.

Are You Looking for an Exceptional Dentist in Fort Collins, CO?

If you want to get dental implants, you need a dentist. PleaseContact Allison Jung Family Dentistry to schedule an exam and consultation. We love crafting new smiles!

Woman_Smiling_Teeth_Whitening

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

When you have missing teeth, you need to resolve the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, more oral complications will develop. Teeth serve more than just appearance. They help to preserve the bone in the jaw, creating pressure that keeps bone healthy. They also serve as placeholders, keeping abutting teeth from shifting. Thankfully, when it comes to missing teeth, you have more than one option. You can get dental implants or dentures in Fort Collins, CO, depending upon your individual circumstances. Here’s what to know about each option.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the latest technological solution for missing teeth. This solution involves surgically implanting a titanium piece into the jaw. A connecting piece, called an abutment, is then attached to the implant, and the faux tooth or teeth are connected to the abutment.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  • Dental implants are permanent and can last a lifetime.
  • They look extremely realistic, even close-up.
  • They don’t require any special cleaning or maintenance, other than regular oral hygiene.
  • They help preserve the jawbone and may help prevent more teeth from being lost.

Drawbacks of Dental Implants

  • They require a certain amount of strong bone to hold the implant.
  • They require oral surgery.
  • The dental implant procedure takes longer than dentures, often several months, and several office visits.

Dentures

Dentures are a tried and true solution for missing teeth. Millions of people worldwide are happy wearing dentures, and their comfort and appearance has only improved over the years.

Benefits of Dentures

  • They are more comfortable and better-looking than in past years.
  • Dentures are easy to slip in and out as needed.
  • They are easier and faster to get than dental implants.
  • Dentures do not require any surgery.

Drawbacks of Dentures

  • They take some getting used to and may feel foreign for a week or more.
  • Dentures don’t look quite as realistic as dental implants.
  • They require special care and maintenance, including special cleaning solutions.
  • Dentures often need to be replaced, to accommodate changes in the gums and jawbone over time.

Both dental implants and dentures can improve your quality of life by restoring your smile and functionality, so choose the option with your dentist in Fort Collins, CO that best aligns with your personal circumstances and preferences.