What are Dental Implants?

Gaps in the smile that result from tooth loss can lower a person's confidence level, as well as cause problems with speech and chewing. Fortunately, several restorative dentistry options can be used to replace missing teeth. One such option is dental implants.

A dental implant, popularly known as a tooth implant, is an artificial root and tooth which are used to replace a missing tooth (or teeth). Dental implants are implanted into the jawbone, and have the look and feel of natural teeth.

Types of Dental Implants (Roots)

Oddly, the root portion of a dental implant is often referred to as a dental implant, even though it really makes up only one part of the implant. Listed below are several types of dental implant roots:

• Root-form implant - the most common type of dental implant root; also known as an endosseous or endosteal implant because it is placed in the bone. Root-form implants are made of titanium and are often shaped like screws, nails, or cones.
• Sub-periosteal implant - commonly used in patients who do not have enough bone in the jaw to support a root-form implant. Sub-periosteal implants are placed over the jawbone, rather than in it.
• Plate-form implant - this type of implant root is a rectangular piece of metal with either one or two metal prongs on one side. Plate-form implants are placed vertically in the jaw so that the prongs stick up into the mouth and provide a place for the artificial tooth to be placed.
• Ramus-frame implant - commonly used in patients with a thin lower jawbone, ramus-frame implants are placed in the jaw - at the back of the mouth extending toward the chin. Once the gum tissue has healed, dentures are made to fit onto the implant root.
• Transosseous implant - used only in the lower jaw. Transosseous implants are bolted onto the jawbone and extend along the entire lower jaw. This type of implant root is rarely used.

Dental Implant Candidates

Candidates for dental implants should be in good oral health, have adequate bone in their jaw for the implant, and have healthy gums.

Patients who are not good candidates for dental implants include:

• Smokers - smoking inhibits the healing process in the mouth
• Diabetics - people with uncontrolled diabetes often have difficulties with healing
• People with periodontal disease (gum disease)
• People with chronic diseases such as bruxism (teeth clenching)