Dental Implants Type, Placement Procedure and More

The impact of missing teeth goes beyond aesthetics; it affects your overall look, bite, and even facial structure. The good news is that with

, we have a reliable solution to restore both your confidence and your smile. If you are new to the idea and want to learn more, this piece of reading is perfect for you.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are making all the right noises in modern dentistry. They are artificial tooth roots carefully placed in or near the jawbone to sustain its life. There are three parts of a dental implant:

• Post or (screw, body, or fixture)
• Abutment
• The crown

All these components come together and form a permanent solution that looks and performs just like natural teeth.

Dental Implant Types

There are two main types according to the placement.

Endosteal implants are the most sought-after option. They comprise of screws, cylinders, or blades surgically fixed into the jawbone. This option is suitable for those who are currently using bridges or removable dentures.

Subperiosteal Implants

These implants are positioned on the surface of the jaw. Subperiosteal implants have metal frameworks that pop through the gum to secure the implant. This type is often for those who are unsuitable to wear traditional dentures due to insufficient bone health.

The Implant Placement Process

There are several crucial steps in the dental implant procedure, and since it involves the gradual biological fusion of the implant with your jawbone, providing a safe and sturdy foundation for replacement teeth is non-negotiable. Here is a stepwise breakdown of the process:

Stage 1: Examination of the Oral Cavity

• Initial Consultation: It all starts with an initial consultation with an implant specialist to assess if you are a suitable candidate or not.

• In-depth Evaluation: After you are through with the initial checkup and recollection of medical history, they take impressions of your gums and teeth to create models, along with x-rays of your jaw to see the area that is missing the tooth.

• Oral CT Scan: There is a chance of undergoing a CT scan to see the extent of the case. It serves as a valuable tool to determine whether you need additional bone grafts or not.

• Nerves and Sinuses: The CT scan also clarifies the picture of your sinuses and nerves, which must not be touched during surgery to prevent nerve damage or sinus complications.

Bone Grafting Procedure

When jaw bones lack the adequate strength and density needed to support the implant, additional grafting may be necessary. This procedure is quite simple; it involves taking tissues from other parts and grafting them into your jawbone to provide strength.

• Bone Augmentation: It involves taking a bone from other parts of your body or making use of an artificial bone material and adding it to your jaw.

• Bone Distraction: It is a surgical procedure done to stimulate your body to grow more bone where necessary.

Step 2: Traditional Implant Fixation Process

• Initial Incision: In this stage, a small portion of your gum is sliced open to reach the tooth socket where your missing tooth used to be.

• Cutting and Drilling: Once done, your dentist drills inside the jawbone to place the titanium base into the socket.

• Recovery or Healing Period: Titanium post-placement is followed by a healing period of 3 to 6 months. During this time, your jawbone fuses with the implant biologically to become one entity.

• Healing Cap Removal: The healing cap is removed after a few weeks.

• Final Abutment and Crown Placement: Once you are successfully through the healing stage and bone fusion is successfully complete, it is time to add an abutment and crown. This addition ensures a secure fit and resistance to the wrath of biting and chewing.

Want to Learn More About Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an investment in your oral health and well-being. By understanding its types and processes, you can make better decisions. For more questions or queries, consult with our implant specialists, Dr. Saam Zarrabi, D.D.S., and Dr. Yahya Mansour, D.D.S., M.S., F.A.G.D, F.I.C.O.I., or their team at

Rodeo Dental and Orthodontics

. We offer our services in multiple locations, so you can schedule an appointment with us at your convenience by dialing