What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a fixture that can replace the root of a tooth. They are usually made out of titanium and are great for replacing missing teeth due to their durability, stability, and lightweight nature. Plus, they’re biocompatible, which allows them to fuse with the jaw bone, which is both beneficial to the gums and the jaw.
What Types of Implants Are Available?
At Implant Cosmetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, DDS, and his team offer a few different dental implant options, including:
Endosseous Implants
Sometimes referred to as endosteal implants, endosseous implants are the most common form of dental implant. They are surgically implanted and a crown or dental bridge is attached after healing.
Subperiosteal Implants
For patients who do not have enough jaw bone to support endosseous implants, Dr. Jirik will recommend a subperiosteal implant. With this option, a metal frame is attached to the jawbone, and artificial teeth are mounted onto it. This frame will be hidden beneath the gums and on top of the jaw.
Zygomatic Implants
This type of dental implant is used specifically for the upper jaw. In this case, the posts are longer and ideal for patients who do not have the ideal amount of bone mass. They can also be combined with traditional implants to complete a full mouth tooth replacement if necessary.
Pterygoid Implants
Pterygoid implants are also used on the upper jaw and are recommended for patients who have lost a significant amount of bone in their jaw.
Loss of bone in the jaw can occur when you lose a tooth because there is nothing there to simulate it, resulting in shrinkage. In these cases, special implants are needed, such as pterygoid and subperiosteal implants.
Discover the Right Implant for You
With all of those types of dental implants, you may be wondering which one is right for you.
The best way to answer that question is by speaking with Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, DDS. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, he is up-to-date on the latest implant techniques and can provide you with professional care.
Contact Implant Cosmetic & General Dentistry in Cabot, AR, at (501) 843-9561 to learn more.
