If you choose to explore dental implants as an option to replace your missing teeth, learn more about the types of dental implants here. Dental implants can actually replace teeth in a variety of ways. The advances in modern dentistry make it possible to replace one, multiple or all your teeth with dental implants. Dental implants are the best tooth replacement solution available.
Patient before and after implant-supported crown from Dr. Drew Shulman.
Dr. Drew Shulman is a dentist in NE Philadelphia that offers full service dental implants. He is a highly educated and passionate dentist who helps many patients regain their confidence. Dr. Shulman has experience placing every dental implant option. He uses dental implants to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, a whole arch of teeth, all teeth, or to support a removable denture.
Replacing a single missing tooth with a dental implant
An implant-supported crown is the most common type of dental implant treatment. If you are only missing one tooth, your dentist will surgically place a single dental implant in the jaw bone. Your mouth will require about three to six months to heal properly.
Then the dentist will attach an abutment. To complete the restoration, the dentist will attach a dental crown to the abutment.
This option may cost more up-front than traditional options, but has the most cost-effective solution over time. It also has a high success rate and is the only option that will replace the root of the lost tooth. The dental crown will blend in seamlessly with the surrounding natural teeth. You will continue brushing and flossing your teeth like you normally do.
A dental bridge supported by dental implants
You can replace two or more consecutive teeth with dental implants. Instead of replacing each missing tooth, Dr. Shulman will surgically place at least two implants on either side of the gap. This is an ideal replacement choice because implant-supported bridges prevent bone loss and resemble natural teeth. Dental implant-supported bridges enable normal chewing power and allow the patient to eat whatever they like.
A denture retained with dental implants
Dentures retained with implants are a great option for edentulous and partially edentulous patients. The two types of dentures available are bar-retained and ball-retained dentures. A bar-retained denture requires two to five implants placed in the jaw bone. The dentist attaches a thin metal bar to them that will follow the natural curve of the jaw.
The denture will fit over the bar and clip securely into place. A ball-retained denture requires two or more implants with a ball-like attachment on each that will fit into sockets on the denture. With both options, you will need to unclip the denture nightly to maintain it. But this does eliminate the need for adhesives, they offer a lot more chewing power, and it is better for your oral health.
All-on-4 Implant Dentures
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure replaces a full arch of teeth with only four dental implants. The procedure works by surgically placing the four implants into the jaw at a specific angle. The dentist optimizes the existing bone structure so that you have great long-term results.
An oral surgeon or dentist can extract teeth, place dental implants, and attach a temporary dental restoration in one surgery. This process requires careful implant placement and treatment planning. The dentist will permanently secure the denture into place and only they can remove it. To learn more about All-on-four, see Multiple dental implants.
Mini Dental Implants
Dr. Shulman also offers mini dental implants for patients who lack sufficient bone density or have bone tissue issues. They are smaller than a regular implant, ranging from 1.8 to 3.3 mm in diameter compared to 3.4 to 5.8 mm wide. Mini implants are a great option for patients who may not have been a candidate for dental implants previously.
This artificial tooth replacement option is better for your overall health versus dentures alone. To learn more about these types of implants, see Mini dental implants.
Are dental implants right for me?
When deciding how to replace your missing or damaged teeth, know what you qualify for and understand what the process entails. Dental implants are for anyone of any age that is missing one or more teeth. They require healthy bone and gum tissue for long-term results.
Patients who have some bone loss and edentulous patients can still be candidates for dental implants. However, they may require additional treatments such as a bone graft or gum lift surgery.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants
To learn which option is best for you, schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Shulman today. You can contact our NE Philadelphia dental office by calling (855) 832-4034 to schedule an appointment.
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