The 411 On Endosteal Implants
If you have lost one or more teeth due to a dental condition or trauma, dental implants are a great option for restoring your smile. Unfortunately, most people do not realize there are different types of implants available. Endosteal implants are the most commonly used option, even though most people are not familiar with this method of smile restoration. This guide and your dentist will help you understand if endosteal implants are right for your needs.
The 411
Implants are surgically placed in the mouth, but they may be placed differently according to your specific needs. Endosteal implants are placed directly in the jaw bone, as opposed to subperiosteal implants that are placed on the jawbone. Endosteal implants feature a screw with a cylinder shape made out of titanium or ceramic in most cases, and an abutment.
The Placement
There are manys steps involved with placing a dental implant, but your dentist will first need to determine if you are a good candidate for the endosteal option. Because these implants are placed into the jawbone, you must have a sufficient amount of bone to support them. If you are lacking the bone mass, fusion of the implant into the bone will not take place, decreasing the effectiveness of your implants. If your dentist believes you do not have the bone to support the implant, a grafting procedure will be recommended.
If your jaw will support the implant, it will be surgically placed into the bone at the location of your missing tooth. Osseointegration will take place over a period of time. Then, the artificial tooth, or crown, will be placed on top of the implant.
The Benefits
One of the main benefits of an endosteal implant is its durability. Because it is implanted directly into the jawbone as opposed to on the jawbone, an endosteal implant will be more stable and secure. Compared to other methods in smile restoration, endosteal implants offer a solution with long-term results. The method of implantation also creates a more natural look, which ensures your implants do not affect your apperance or self-esteem. Lastly, endosteal implants may also keep your jawbone strong, preventing and reversing bone loss that occurs with age.
Having a full, functional smile is possible with the help of implant dentistry. This guide will help you understand endosteal implants and decide whether they will be a smart investment for you and your health.