Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are placed in the mouth and fuse with the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth. There are three types of prosthetics that can be supported by dental implants: crowns, bridges, and dentures. In this blog post, we will discuss each type of prosthetic in detail and explain how they are used with dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a type of prosthetic that can be used to replace missing tooth roots. They are placed in the mouth and fuse with the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth.
Dental implants are popular because they are a permanent solution for missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which tend to slide around while eating or speaking, implants are permanently fixed in the mouth. They are also more stable than traditional bridges, which can loosen and fall out over time.
To have dental implants placed, the first step is to have a consultation with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Once it is determined that you are a good candidate, the next step is to have the implant placed. The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone. This process can take several months. Once the implant has fused with the bone, the next step is to place the prosthetic tooth on top of the implant.
What prosthetics can be supported by dental implants?
Crowns
Implant-supported crowns are used to replace a single missing tooth. They are made of porcelain or ceramic and are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. The crown is placed on top of an abutment piece that is connected to the dental implant, which is anchored in the jawbone.
Bridges
Bridges are used to replace two or more adjacent missing teeth. They are made of porcelain or ceramic and are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. The bridge is anchored in place by dental implants on either side of the gap. This allows for multiple missing teeth to be replaced using only two dental implants.
Dentures
Dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in a single arch (upper or lower). They are made of acrylic and fit over the gums. Implant-supported dentures are anchored in place by a series of dental implants. Depending on the type of denture used, there are different dental implants that can be used. For example, some dentures are held in place by mini dental implants, while others use a technique known as all-on-four implants. Still, other dentures may require more implants to be properly stabilized. Your dentist will help you determine what type of implant-supported denture is right for you.
In Conclusion
In this blog, we discussed dental implants and the three types of prosthetics that can be supported by them: crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are placed in the mouth and fuse with the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth. If you are considering dental implants, talk to your dentist about whether dental implants are right for you. They can help you choose the best prosthetic for your needs and provide instructions on how to care for your new teeth. With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime. Thanks for reading!
If you have any questions about dental implants or prosthetics, please contact our office. We would be happy to help you!
Dr. Gerald Sisko graduated from Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 1987. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and the Akron Dental Society where he is currently holding a council position. He has had the honor and distinction of being awarded “TOP DENTIST” in Akron and Cleveland as well as Northeast Ohio for the last several consecutive years.
