A dental implant is an excellent option for many people who are looking to replace missing teeth. The dental implant mimics the root of a natural tooth. After the implant is surgically placed, replacement teeth are put on top of the implant.

For those who have healthy gum tissue and enough jaw bone to support the implant, the dental implant can be a perfect choice. Implants can replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth, or all of a person’s missing teeth. When you and your dentist discuss dental implants, there are a few different kinds to consider.

What Kind of Dental Implant is Right for You?

There are three main types of implants from which you can choose. Your specific situation will dictate what kind of implant is right for you.

The first type of implant is the endosseous implant. The word endosseous means “within the bone.” This is an implant that is shaped much like a screw and is inserted into your jawbone. It usually consists of metal, ceramic, or a combination of the two materials.

The second type of implant available for people is the subperiosteal implant, which means “on top of the bone.” Instead of being inserted into the jawbone, this type of implant is a frame placed atop the jawbone and under your gum tissue.

Finally, the last type of implant available is the transosteal implant, which means “through the bone.” These implants penetrate both the gum tissue and jawbone, fixing them into your mouth. The shape is that of a pin or a U-shaped implant.

What If You Do Not Have Enough Bone to Support a Dental Implant?

One of the groups of people that are often ineligible to receive dental implants are those who do not have enough jawbone to which an implant can be affixed. As you can see, all the different types of implants involve the use of the jawbone to hold your dental implant and your new teeth in place. Luckily, there are a few options that can be considered for those who do not have sufficient jawbone to support a dental implant.

Some patients may be able to undergo a bone augmentation treatment. When someone goes through this treatment, their jawbone is restored. This is achieved through bone additives and other techniques that will fortify the bone. A sinus lift can also help to replace missing bone by adding it under the sinus if the bone in that location cannot support a dental implant. Ridge expansion can be used to expand the width of a jaw. This is used when someone does not have a jaw that is wide enough to support implants successfully.

Talk to Your Dentist About Dental Implants

At McBride Dental, we can discuss the best options for you to replace your teeth. Our experienced dentists can analyze the health of your jawbone to determine which type of dental implant would work for you. Contact us today to start your journey toward replacing your missing teeth.