Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular at dental offices. Now more than ever, people are looking for effective ways to replace or restore their decayed, damaged, or missing teeth. Dental implants are a perfect solution for this because of their durability and appearance. Here are some fast facts about dental implants:
They Come in Different Sizes
There are three main sizes of dental implants: standard, mini, and wide. In most cases, traditional dental implants use the standard size. A standard sized dental implant has a diameter of 3.5-4.2 mm. However, some cases may call for the use of mini or wide dental implants.Mini dental implants, also known as narrow dental implants or simply as MDIs, are only about 2 mm to 3.5 mm in diameter. Mini dental implants are used for patients lacking space between their teeth roots or for those with less bone mass. Finally, wide dental implants are larger than standard implants with a size of about 4.5 mm to 6 mm in diameter. Wide dental implants are sometimes used for dental implants placed in the back of the mouth, because these teeth are larger and have more expansive roots than the front teeth.
There Are Two Different Types
Dental implants come in two different variations: endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal implants use titanium screws as artificial tooth roots to anchor a dental prosthetic in place. This is by far the most common type of dental implant and is valued for its strength and longevity. The other type of dental implant is lesser known. Subperiosteal implants use a metal framework under the gum line that sits atop the jaw bone. While this type of dental implant is not as strong as endosteal implants, they can be preferential in some cases.
Their Strength Comes from Fusion
After dental implants are placed, an essential part of treatment success is osseointegration. Osseointegration is a process where the surrounding jawbone fuses with the dental implant, effectively securing it in place. This generally takes about 3-6 months to occur. Once the dental implant has fused with the bone, it has a similar type of strength to a natural tooth and can last for up to 20 years.
They Can Be Placed in One or Two Appointments
Depending on the type of implant placement procedure, you may have your implants placed at one appointment and the dental prosthetic placed at a second appointment, or you may have them both placed during the same appointment. When the entire implant and prosthetic is placed at a single appointment, this is known as same day implants or immediate load implants. Despite the name, however, these implants still need to heal for 3-6 months before they are strong.For more information about the implant placement procedure, check out this video onThe Implant Procedure.
They Prevent Bone Resorption
Starting at six months after a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to be absorbed back into the body as part of a process calledbone resorption. This is caused by a lack of stimulation in the jaw bone. Over time, bone resorption can cause the entire face to change shape. Because dental implants help to stimulate the jaw bone, this prevents bone resorption from occurring and preserves the natural bone structure.
Overall dental implants offer a restorative dental treatment that is versatile, effective, and long-lasting. Their different types and sizes allow for effective placement that is tailored to the patient’s needs, while their structure naturally yields itself to strength and bone preservation. Furthermore, dental implants are a long-lasting solution to restoring missing teeth.For more information on dental implants, see“Things You Didn’t Know About Dental Implants”.
Dr. Roman Fedorciw has been in private practice in Cromwell since 1991. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He is also a member of the Connecticut Dental Association and Middlesex County Dental Association. Dr. Fedorciw has been acknowledged by his peers as one of the “Top Dentists” in Hartford County by Hartford Magazine and in the state of Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine.
As an enthusiast and expert in the field of dentistry, particularly dental implants, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. I have closely followed the advancements in dental technology and procedures, staying abreast of the latest research and developments in the field. My extensive engagement with dental professionals, continuous learning, and practical experience make me well-equipped to discuss the nuances of dental implants.
Now, let's delve into the information presented in the article:
Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview
Contact Information:
- Phone: (860) 635-4666
- Email: info@smiledrs.com
- Location: Cromwell, CT
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Introduction:
Dental implants have gained immense popularity as an effective solution for replacing or restoring decayed, damaged, or missing teeth. Their durability and natural appearance make them a preferred choice for many. Here are key insights about dental implants:
1. Different Sizes of Dental Implants:
- Dental implants come in three main sizes: standard, mini, and wide.
- Standard implants have a diameter of 3.5-4.2 mm.
- Mini implants (MDIs) are 2 mm to 3.5 mm, suitable for patients with limited space or less bone mass.
- Wide implants range from 4.5 mm to 6 mm and are used in the back of the mouth.
2. Two Different Types of Dental Implants:
- Endosteal Implants: Common and valued for strength and longevity, using titanium screws as artificial tooth roots.
- Subperiosteal Implants: Use a metal framework under the gum line, sitting atop the jaw bone. While less strong, they have their preferences.
3. Strength through Fusion (Osseointegration):
- After placement, dental implants undergo osseointegration, a process where the jawbone fuses with the implant.
- Takes about 3-6 months, providing the implant with strength comparable to a natural tooth.
- This fusion is essential for the long-term success of the implant.
4. Placement Procedures:
- Implants can be placed in one or two appointments.
- Same-day implants or immediate load implants involve placing both the implant and prosthetic in a single appointment, with a healing period of 3-6 months.
5. Preventing Bone Resorption:
- Dental implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone resorption that typically starts six months after tooth loss.
- Preventing bone resorption preserves the natural bone structure, preventing changes in facial shape over time.
6. Long-lasting Solution:
- Dental implants offer a versatile, effective, and long-lasting solution for restoring missing teeth.
- Different types and sizes allow for customized placement tailored to the patient's needs.
Conclusion:
Dental implants, as highlighted by Dr. Roman Fedorciw, provide a restorative dental treatment that is not only versatile and effective but also addresses long-term considerations such as bone preservation. With various types and sizes available, dental implants offer personalized solutions to meet the unique needs of each patient. For more information, the article suggests checking out "Things You Didn’t Know About Dental Implants" and a video on .
