Types of Dental Implants: Guide To Choosing What’s Right For You

What are the different types of dental implants? It’s a question we frequently receive from patients who are exploring their options.

When you are missing one or more teeth, such as from a traumatic accident or an infection, it can be challenging to figure out what the right type of replacement is for you.

The team at Cedarbrook Dental in Gig Harbor, WA, has years of experience advising patients on their options about different types of dental implants.

This article examines common dental implant options so you can make a more informed decision when you arrive at our office. We’ll provide insight into implants such as endosteal, subperiosteal, single-tooth, multiple-tooth, and full-mouth implants. You’ll also see our answers to patients’ most frequently asked questions.

We will take the time to listen to your questions and concerns. You can rest assured that our oral surgeon will explain your dental implant solutions in detail during the consultation and assessment of your missing tooth or teeth.

Main Types of Dental Implants to Consider

Before you arrive for your appointment at Cedarbrook Dental, here is an overview of the main kinds of dental implants. We will let you know which options are the most suitable for your situation and goals for a new smile.

Endosteal

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. Your doctor places a screw in the jawbone, which holds your new replacement tooth in place. (The term endosteal means “in the bone.”)

Subperiosteal

When a patient does not have sufficient bone in the jaw to hold onto a dental implant, we may recommend getting a subperiosteal implant. A subperiosteal implant is located above the jaw and below the gum (“subperiosteal” is a term that your oral surgeon refers to, meaning “on the bone.”)

Single-tooth implants

A single-tooth implant involves replacing just one tooth. We use a titanium post to attach the implant and give you a replacement crown or tooth to restore your dental functionality. For example, you may have lost one tooth during a traumatic accident or a sports injury.

Multiple-tooth implants

If you have lost multiple teeth due to injury, trauma, or infection (or do not have some teeth because of genetic causes), we can provide you with multiple-tooth implants. We’ll customize each tooth to give you replacements that look and chew food like your original teeth.

Full-mouth implants

A full-mouth implant involves replacing all the teeth that are missing for patients who do not have a single tooth in their mouth.

Types of full-mouth dental implants include:

SNAPSecure:

This is a removable overdenture solution using attachments that work like buttons to snap implants into your jawbone. They don’t involve adhesive. You remove them at night and clean them like you would clean ordinary dentures.

FIXEDSecure:

This approach uses a similar process to the SNAPSecure solution, but in this case, your implants are not removable. Patients can upgrade their SNAPSecure implants to become FIXEDSecure implants. Contact us to discuss the details.

ALL-IN-ONE Solution:

Often referred to as “All-On-4,” the ALL-IN-ONE solution inserts titanium screws into your jaw at an angle for maximum stability. These are permanent tooth replacements. The doctor only needs to use four screws for each half of your mouth, and less bone tissue is needed during the procedure.

Supporting Procedures for Dental Implants

At Cedarbrook Dental, we also provide supporting procedures designed to improve the function of your implanted teeth, such as:

*  Bone augmentation: 

For patients without sufficient healthy bone in their jaw, the doctor might determine that you need bone augmentation, including growth factors and bone additives to support your new implants.

* Ridge expansion:

In some cases, patients with narrow jaws may benefit from ridge expansion, using a bone graft on the top of their jaw (the ridge).

* Sinus lifts:

The doctor has an option to perform a sinus lift to provide more space for implants, if it would otherwise be difficult to place dental implants in the upper back area of your jaw (close to the sinus).

Answers to Patients’ Frequently Asked Dental Implant Questions

What is the best type of dental implant to get?    

When considering the types of dental implants, there’s no single best option, since each patient will have a different situation and needs. When you come for your initial consultation at Cedarbrook Dental, we’ll evaluate your condition and make a customized recommendation.

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How much do dental implants cost in Washington?         

The costs of dental implants in Washington state vary according to several factors, including how many implants you need, the type of implant, and the condition of your jaw. You might require procedures before the implant, such as bone augmentation. 

There are also differences in coverage from one insurance plan to the next. Contact your insurance provider or speak with us about your options.

What are the downsides of dental implants? 

Downsides of getting dental implants include the possibility of paying out of pocket if your insurance plan does not cover the procedure, and the potential need for you to get a supporting procedure first, such as a sinus lift or bone augmentation. As with any medical procedure, there is a possibility of bleeding, gum recession, damage to other teeth, or implant failure.

Are dental implants worth the money?  

This is a personal question each patient will have to consider. Many people find it worthwhile to spend money on implants to preserve their current jawbone and match their existing teeth. You’ll have the benefit of long-lasting implants that work just like natural teeth.  

If you cannot wear dentures or do not want to wear them, you can consider it worthwhile to get dental implants.     

What are the most natural-looking dental implants?

Generally speaking, dental implants made of porcelain or ceramic give you the most natural look, since they have a translucent quality that simulates the look of tooth enamel.

Contact Us Today for a Personalized Recommendation for Dental Implants

Whether you need permanent replacement teeth or temporary replacement teeth, we’re standing by to help. 

Dental implants will do wonders for improving the look and function of your teeth. We know there is a lot of information to sort out regarding the dental implant process, so please feel free to consult with us for a personalized recommendation.

For more information about the available types of dental implants in Gig Harbor or to schedule an appointment, please get in touch with the experts at Cedarbrook Dental today.