You may know that dental implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth, but did you know there are several types of dental implants? Each type has special advantages that may make them the right choice for you.
Types of Dental Implants in McLean, VA
The various types of dental implants are similar in that they feature a metal post surgically implanted into the jaw. The main difference is in how the implants are attached to the jawbone.
Endosteal
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implants. Shaped like a small screw, cylinder, or blade, an endosteal implant is implanted into the jawbone. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant to create a sturdy base that holds an artificial tooth crown. Each endosteal implant can replace one or more teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
Subperiosteal
A subperiosteal implant is similar to an endosteal implant, except that this type of dental implant sits on top of the jawbone rather than being embedded into the bone. A subperiosteal implant sits between the gum and jawbone, and the post sticks up through the gum to hold the crown. Each subperiosteal implant can replace teeth on the upper or lower jaw.
Zygomatic
Zygomatic implants are a relatively new type of dental implant that replaces missing teeth on the upper jaw only. Attached to the cheekbone instead of the jaw, these implants may be the right choice for patients who do not have enough bone mass to support endosteal implants. Zygomatic implants can support artificial crowns for several missing teeth or the entire arch of teeth on the upper jaw.
All-on-4
All-on-4 implants can hold the entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth on just four dental implants. An all-on-4 implants may be right for someone who has lost all or most of their upper or lower teeth and does not want individual implants for each missing tooth.
Mini
As their name suggests, mini dental implants are smaller than traditional dental implants. Mini implants are narrower than other implants, mini implants are about the size of a toothpick or pencil lead. Placing mini implants requires a less invasive technique compared to traditional dental implants, and may be the right choice for patients with bone loss. Dentists sometimes recommend mini dental implants to stabilize traditional dentures.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants Today
For more information about the different types of dental implants, consult with our dentist in McLean VA. Dr. Lee and his team can help you determine the right type of implant to support your oral health and create a beautiful smile. Please call 703-448-1020 or contact us online.