Let’s Talk Restorative Dentistry: The Different Types of Dental Implants

 

It feels like everywhere we turn we see people with pristine smiles. Mainstream media would have you believe that perfect smiles are obtained naturally 100% of the time. Your favorite actor or celebrity seems to have the brightest and straightest smile imaginable. What if I told you that in most cases, those perfect smiles you see are not completely natural? With more than 120 million Americans missing at least one tooth, it is likely that those perfect smiles you see have benefited from dental implants. Let’s talk about the different types of dental implants.

 

Types of Dental Implants

 

All-on-3

 

This is a unique and modern procedure that allows for smile restoration to be completed in one visit. All-on-3 uses three implants or dental posts to restore your teeth. The three dental posts combined with a full hybrid denture can restore a full arch of teeth, whether the bottom or the top. Thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, all-on-3 dental implants make smile makeovers accessible. 

 

Benefits of All-on-3 Dental Implants

• More comfortable than dentures
• Quick and timely procedure 
• Cost-effective smile makeover solution

 

All-on-4

 

Another type of dental implant is all-on-4. Similar to all-on-3 implants, all-on-4 dental implants use a few implants combined with dentures to restore as much as an entire dental arch. As you might’ve guessed, this option uses four dental implants or posts to support the custom dentures. With the dentures being fixed into place, you don’t have to worry about taking them in and out. And you definitely don’t have to worry about any messy denture adhesive. All-on-4 dental implants are great because their functionality and upkeep mimic natural teeth. 

 

Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants

 

• Maintenance mimics natural teeth (brushing, flossing, checkups, cleanings, etc.)
• Can be an option for patients who did not qualify for traditional implants
• Cost-effective smile makeover solution
• Offer slightly more support than all-on-3 

 

Mini Implants 

 

Mini implants are smaller than traditional dental implants, requiring less jawbone to hold them into place. Some patients with bone loss are not able to take advantage of traditional implants. Mini dental implants offer a viable solution for these patients. This dental implant option offers great security and you can have confidence that your dentures will stay in place. 

 

Benefits of Mini Implants 

 

• Short recovery time 
• Can be an option for patients who did not qualify for traditional implants
• Smaller size means less bone structure needed

 

Traditional Dental Implants

 

When looking at types of dental implants, traditional dental implants are known as the “gold standard” within restorative dentistry. Don’t let the word ‘traditional’ fool you; advances have been made in recent years. This simply refers to the methodology of these implants. 

 

Dental implants consist of a dental post that is surgically placed into your jawbone. The post resembles a screw, in looks and functionality. An abutment is placed on the post that supports different attachments like dental crowns, dentures, and dental prosthetics. Traditional dental implants are the best at mimicking natural teeth in looks and functionality.

 

Benefits of Traditional Dental Implants

 

• The closest option to natural teeth
• Offers great stability 
• Allows for continued bone growth 
• Can replace a single tooth or various teeth 
• Versatility that supports different dental attachments

What types of dental implants are best for you?

Each individual has unique wants and needs. Pinpointing which dental implant option is best for you can be tricky. It is best to pay a visit to your family dentist and allow them to advise you. If you are looking for dental implant options in Spokane, Washington, you’re in luck. Downriver Smiles offers a wide variety of dental implant options. We can advise you on the best option for you.