Do you want to have a dental implant in Melbourne fitted but have heard that there are different types?
As this procedure has become more common, more advances have been made in the type of implant that people can receive, with many based around reducing restrictions and making the surgery more accessible to a wider range of dental patients.
So, in this article 4 of the most common types of oral implants used in dental surgeries today will be explored briefly, so read on and enjoy!
Endosteal implants
What is it made of? Titanium alloy.
What does it look like? A small, titanium screw!
How is it fitted? Your dentist will make small incisions into your numbed jaw, peel back the gum and then drill a hole in a predetermined location. Post-fitting, the gum is sewn back together and the fusing can begin. On average, fusing takes between 3-6 months.
Restrictions- You have to have enough jawbone for this type of implant to fuse correctly. There are conditions such as osteoporosis that can impact on the lifespan of this implant, so talk to your doctor and dentist about suitability.
Subperiosteal implants
What is it made of? Titanium alloy.
What does it look like? This implant looks like a thin piece of wire, shaped to slot over the top of a jaw; imagine a skeleton or physical blueprint of a sports guard. It has 2 posts, usually placed at the front or side.
How is it fitted? This implant does not require fusing to occur, so your dentist will make some incisions into your gums and physically lift the gum off of the jawbone. Placing the subperiosteal implant onto the jaw, the gum is sewn back into place, with the posts protruding up through the gums, acting as a point for the prosthetic teeth to be attached.
Restrictions- Generally speaking, this implant type has few restrictions but as always, talk to your dentist about any health issues you have.
Mini or micro implants
What is it made of? Titanium alloy.
What does it look like? A mini version of the endosteal implant!
How is it fitted? The fitting is similar to that of an endosteal implant, but there is less fusing time required for this implant as the hole which is drilled into the jaw is not as deep.
Restrictions- You will need to stop smoking and drinking to prolong the lifespan of this implant type.
Zygomatic implants
What is it made of? Titanium alloy.
What does it look like? A long titanium screw!
How is it fitted? Zygomatic implants are fitted to the top jaw and are attached to the zygoma (or cheekbone). There are incisions made into the upper gum line, a hole is drilled but the surgery takes a lot longer due to the depth required.
Restrictions- You need to have good bone health for a zygomatic implant to be successful and, as is the way with implants, you will need to refrain from smoking for long-term success.
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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