If you find yourself with a missing tooth or teeth, chances are your dentist has discussed dental implants with you as a tooth-replacement option. If you are an ideal candidate, they are an excellent, long-lasting option that will help restore your smile and your confidence.
Dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. There are different options available to you depending on your oral health, the number of teeth you’re missing, and personal preference.
Single Tooth Implants
Single Tooth Implants are suited for just that: replacing a single tooth. These are also an option for patients that have more than one missing tooth that are not adjacent to each other.
Implant-Supported Bridge
If you are missing several teeth, an Implant-Supported Bridge may be ideal. Instead of the implant acting as an anchor for a crown, it acts as a support for a bridge. Unlike a fixed bridge, an Implant-Supported Bridge doesn’t require support from the healthy teeth surrounding the implant site.
All-On-4 Dental Implants
The All-On-4 system is a permanent restoration recommended for patients missing several teeth. These implants are extremely secure, and using just 4 titanium implants, they can restore a patient’s entire upper or lower jaw.
Immediate Load Dental Implants
If a dental implant is placed with sufficient stability a temporary tooth can be attached to the implant right after insertion. Meaning these Immediate Load Implants allow a patient to leave the office with a tooth in place the same day as implant placement. This temporary tooth, however, will eventually be replaced with a long-term crown.
Like every patient, every mouth is different, and your dentist is ultimately the one who knows what’s best when it comes to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.