A major benefit of implants is that they prevent the bone deterioration associated with tooth loss, preserving the integrity of your jaw. There are multiple types of implants, so there is one to meet your needs.
Single Tooth Implants
Single tooth implants are meant to replace an individual tooth. You may have more than one tooth missing, but if they are all in different locations in your mouth, a single rod can be placed in each location to hold a single tooth.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Multiple tooth implants are an alternative to a traditional fixed bridge or partial denture. One or more implants supports a section of false teeth. The exact number of implants needed will be determined by your dentist, based on an oral exam and X-rays.
Implants can also be used to support an entire arch of missing, or unhealthy, unsalvageable, teeth. Before you get your implants, any remaining unhealthy teeth need to be removed. Then, your implants are placed. For a typical arch, you may get between six and eight implants.
All-on-4s are a type of full denture. They are meant to replace whole arch of missing teeth, but the teeth are supported by four implants. This type of implant is done if your bone mass isn't quite what it should be. The front two implants are installed straight in while the two in the back are installed at a 45-degree angle, thus providing the support your false teeth need.
Mini dental implants are smaller, thinner rods that are often used when you jaw doesn't have sufficient bone mass. These implants can be used to stabilize implants in your lower jaw, but are often used to support false teeth. Mini implants are more stable than dentures, but they are not as stable as regular implants as they don't fuse as well.
If you are unsure of what denture you need, contact our office. With a complete oral exam, your dentist will be able to help you determine the best course of action.