Types of Dental Implants and When They’re Used

Exploring the Types of Dental Implants With Dr. Sam Latif

Dental implants have revolutionized the way we replace missing teeth. These artificial tooth roots provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. At Keep Smiling Columbus in Columbus, OH, Dr. Sam Latif specializes in providing different types of dental implants to suit your oral health needs. 

Understanding the different types of implants and their uses can help you make an informed decision about your dental health. Learn about the main types of dental implants, their benefits, and the situations where they’re most commonly used with our Columbus implant dentist. 

Call (614) 459-7300 to schedule your free consultation at Keep Smiling Columbus today.

Single-Tooth Implants

Single-tooth implants are the most common type of dental implant. They’re used to replace a single missing tooth without affecting neighboring teeth.

How single-tooth implants work:

• A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone
• The bone grows around the post, anchoring it firmly in place
• An abutment is attached to the post
• A crown that matches your natural teeth is placed on top

When they’re used:

• To replace a single missing tooth
• When adjacent teeth are healthy and don’t need crowns or bridges
• For patients with sufficient bone density in the jaw

Benefits:

• Look and function like natural teeth
• Don’t require altering nearby teeth
• Can last a lifetime with proper care

Multiple Tooth Implants

Multiple tooth implants are used when a patient is missing several teeth in a row. They can support a bridge of replacement teeth.

How multi-tooth implants work:

• Two or more implants are placed in the jawbone
• The implants act as anchors for a bridge of artificial teeth
• The bridge is custom-made to match your natural teeth

When they’re used:

• To replace several adjacent missing teeth
• When there’s not enough bone density for individual implants
• For patients who want a more stable alternative to removable partial dentures

Benefits:

• More stable than traditional bridges
• Don’t put stress on surrounding natural teeth
• Can restore full chewing function

Full Arch Implants

Full arch implants, also known as implant-supported dentures or All-On-4 implants, replace an entire arch of missing teeth.

How they work:

• Four to six implants are strategically placed in the jawbone
• A full set of replacement teeth is attached to these implants
• The replacement teeth can be fixed or removable

When they’re used:

• To replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw
• For patients with significant tooth loss or decay
• As an alternative to traditional dentures

Benefits:

• More stable and comfortable than traditional dentures
• Preserve jawbone and facial structure
• Allow for better taste and temperature sensation than conventional dentures

Mini Implants

Mini implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants. They’re less invasive and can be used when standard implants aren’t suitable.

How they work:

• Smaller titanium posts are placed in the jawbone
• They can support a single crown, bridge, or denture
• The procedure is often simpler and faster than standard implant placement

When they’re used:

• For patients with insufficient bone density for standard implants
• To stabilize loose dentures
• In narrow spaces where standard implants won’t fit

Benefits:

• Less invasive procedure
• Often don’t require bone grafting
• Can be placed and restored in a single visit in some cases

Immediate Load Implants

Immediate load implants, also known as same-day implants or teeth-in-a-day, allow for the placement of a temporary tooth right after the implant is inserted.

How they work:

• The implant is placed in the jawbone
• A temporary crown is immediately attached
• After healing, the temporary crown is replaced with a permanent one

When they’re used:

• For patients with good bone quality and quantity
• In less stress-bearing areas of the mouth
• When immediate aesthetic results are desired

Benefits:

• Provide an immediate aesthetic solution
• Reduce overall treatment time
• Allow patients to leave the dentist’s office with a full smile

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of implant used when there’s severe bone loss in the upper jaw.

How they work:

• Longer implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the upper jaw
• They can support a full arch of replacement teeth
• Often used in combination with regular implants

When they’re used:

• For patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw
• As an alternative to extensive bone grafting
• To avoid sinus lift procedures

Benefits:

• Allow for implant treatment in cases of severe bone loss
• Reduce the need for bone grafting
• Can support an immediate full arch restoration

Factors Affecting Implant Choice

Several factors influence which type of implant Dr. Latif might recommend:

• Bone Density: The amount and quality of bone in your jaw play a crucial role. Some implants require more bone than others.
• Number of Missing Teeth: A single missing tooth might call for a different solution than multiple missing teeth or a full arch.
• Overall Oral Health: The condition of your remaining teeth and gums can affect the most suitable implant type.
• Budget: Different implant types come with different costs. Dr. Latif can help you find a solution that fits your budget.
• Personal Preferences: Your lifestyle and preferences will also be considered when choosing the right implant type.

Schedule Your Consultation to Restore Your Smile 

Dental implants offer a long-lasting, natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or an entire arch, there’s likely an implant option that can meet your needs. At Keep Smiling Columbus, Dr. Sam Latif will assess your situation and recommend the most appropriate type of implant for you. 

If you’re considering dental implants, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Latif and his team at (614) 459-7300 to discuss your options and start your journey toward a restored smile. We look forward to meeting patients from the Columbus, OH, area, including Upper Arlington, Dublin, Westerville, and Bexley, OH.