The Many Types of Dental Implants Explained By Dr. DiBartola
If you’re a resident of Bridgeville, PA, and considering dental implants to restore your smile, it’s essential to understand the various options available. At DiBartola Dental, our Bridgeville, PA, implant dentist, Dr. Wayne DiBartola, recognizes that every patient’s needs are unique, and that’s why we offer a range of dental implant solutions.
Dr. DiBartola explains the different types of dental implants, their purposes, and their suitability for different situations. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please call our Bridgeville dental practice at (412) 221-9440.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots designed to support one or more missing teeth. They offer a permanent, natural-looking solution for tooth replacement and provide numerous benefits over traditional restorations like bridges or dentures. With several types of dental implants available, understanding their differences is crucial for determining the best option for your specific needs.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type, designed to be surgically placed directly into the jawbone. They come in various forms, including root-form (shaped like a tooth root) and plate-form (a flat surface with posts). Suitable candidates typically have sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone, under the gum tissue. The procedure involves making a small incision in the gum to create a space for the implant to rest on the jawbone. They used to be recommended for patients with insufficient jawbone density for endosteal implants. However, bone grafting has made these types of implants much less widely used.
All-on-4 Implants
The All-on-4 technique involves placing four implants in the upper or lower jaw to support a full arch of replacement teeth. This approach offers a secure and stable solution while minimizing the need for bone grafting procedures. The process involves extracting the remaining teeth, placing the implants, and attaching a temporary or permanent prosthesis on the same day.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are designed for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. They’re longer than traditional implants and are anchored into the cheekbone (zygoma) for added stability. C. This type of implant used to be recommended in cases where traditional implants or bone grafting procedures were not viable options. Modern bone grafting techniques have rendered zygomatic implants mostly obsolete.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants but still provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth. They offer advantages such as a less invasive procedure, shorter healing time, and lower cost. However, they may not be suitable for all patients or situations, and their longevity can be shorter compared to standard implants.
Materials Used for Dental Implants
- Titanium is the most commonly used material due to its biocompatibility, strength, and ability to fuse with the jawbone.
- Zirconia implants are a metal-free alternative for patients with metal allergies or concerns about the aesthetic appearance of metal implants.
The choice of material depends on factors like bone density, aesthetics, and the patient’s overall health and preferences.
Choosing the Right Dental Implant
Consulting with your Bridgeville dental implant provider is essential to determine the most appropriate implant type for your specific situation. Factors like jawbone density, gum health, bite force, and the number of missing teeth will be taken into consideration. Dr. DiBartola will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and desired outcome.
Learn More About Implant Dentistry, Call DiBartola Dental!
At DiBartola Dental, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve a beautiful, functional smile through advanced dental implant solutions. Our team, led by Dr. Wayne DiBartola, specializes in various implant types and will work closely with you to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs. Don’t let missing teeth or dental issues hold you back any longer. Contact DiBartola Dental today at (412) 221-9440 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards restoring your smile. DiBartola Dental serves patients near our Bridgeville office and patients from surrounding areas such as Heidelberg, Carnegie, & Upper Saint Clair, PA.