The Different Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way we think about dental care. More and more people are discovering the great benefits that come with owning one, but what are they exactly? Every dentist has a different approach to tooth replacement, but they all work similarly: by supporting a new tooth or crown. Here is a brief list explaining the most common types of dental implants.

Types of Implants

Each dental implant is different in terms of coating, connector, and size options. However, while there are several methods for placing implants, the different types typically fall into one of two categories.

Endosteal (Endosseous) Implants: This is the most common type of dental implant. They are sometimes used as an alternative to a bridge or removable denture. Endosteal implants include screw types (threaded), cylinder types (smooth), or bladed types. Your dentist can help determine which type of dental implant will work best for you, but endosteal implants are safe, effective, and the most popular choice used today.

For this type of implant, the dentist begins by drilling into the jawbone to insert a titanium screw, which acts as an artificial root. Before you can finish the treatment, you must wait for the soft tissue and bone to heal around the root, which can take a couple of months. Endosteal implants are known for looking and feeling like natural teeth. 

Subperiosteal Implants: Subperiosteal is hardly used today. They were once primarily used to hold dentures in place in patients with insufficient bone height. When subperiosteal implants are used, they are placed on the jawbone within the gum tissue, with the metal implant post exposed through the gums to hold the denture.

With subperiosteal implants, the overall treatment process is done in two appointments and is often a far shorter treatment plan than with an endosteal implant. However, subperiosteal implants don’t have the same level of stability since the implant doesn’t go into the jawbone but rather rests on top of the bone and is held in place by only soft tissue. This still gives more support than dentures without implants but is less stable than a full endosteal implant system.

Dental implants are a great solution for people who suffer from tooth loss. Give us a call today to talk about which type of dental implant is best for you. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have!

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As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it permeates almost every aspect of our lives. One of the most exciting developments is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into various industries, and dentistry is no exception. AI is transforming the landscape of dental care, revolutionizing diagnostics, treatment, and patient outcomes. In this blog post, we will explore how AI is reshaping the field of dentistry and the potential benefits it brings.

AI-Driven Imaging and Diagnostics

Traditional dental imaging techniques have long been crucial in identifying dental issues. However, AI brings a new level of precision and efficiency to this process. By employing deep learning algorithms, AI can analyze dental X-rays, intraoral images, and CBCT scans to detect early signs of cavities, gum diseases, and even oral cancers with remarkable accuracy.

For instance, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) has been investing in AI research to enhance dental diagnostics. Their studies demonstrate how AI algorithms can recognize subtle dental abnormalities that may escape the human eye, allowing for early intervention and prevention of severe dental problems.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Each patient’s oral health condition is unique, making personalized treatment plans essential for effective care. AI algorithms process vast amounts of patient data to identify patterns and recommend tailored treatment options for individual patients. These recommendations are based on factors like patient history, genetics, lifestyle habits, and response to specific treatments.

The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) has been actively exploring the implementation of AI to improve dental treatments. By leveraging AI technology, dental practitioners can offer personalized treatment regimens that consider the patient’s preferences and medical history, leading to improved treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Virtual Dentistry Consultations

With the advent of telemedicine and AI-powered virtual consultations, patients can seek dental advice remotely. AI chatbots and virtual assistants can interact with patients, address their concerns, provide basic dental advice, and even schedule appointments. This convenience not only enhances patient engagement but also helps optimize the dental practice’s efficiency.

Several governments worldwide, including Canada and Australia, have been promoting telehealth and exploring the potential of AI in dental consultations. By facilitating virtual interactions, patients can receive prompt guidance, reducing unnecessary physical visits and easing the burden on dental clinics.

Conclusion

The integration of AI in dentistry heralds a promising future for oral healthcare. With advancements in AI-driven imaging and diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and virtual dentistry consultations, these developments not only benefit patients but also optimize dental practice operations.

As AI technology continues to evolve, its potential in dentistry will undoubtedly expand. Dentists, researchers, and policymakers must continue to collaborate to harness the full potential of AI and ensure its responsible integration into dental care practices.