Dentistry as a
profession has witnessed new heights with the passage of time. In the present
context, dental professionals in the form of oral and maxillofacial surgeons and
periodontists have emerged to the scene, besides regular dentists. Most experts
are all in support of dental implants
for the sole reason a number of patients have benefited from them. However, it
is difficult to ascertain whether implants are the only way out or some alternatives
will prove beneficial. Prior to availing them, it is important on your part to gain
substantial knowledge about the types, cost and procedures.
Basically, dental implants are artificial titanium screws placed inside the jaw to replace a
fallen tooth or support false teeth. Contrary to the commonly held belief that implant
fixing can be super easy, reality is totally different. Dentists need to be cautious
when carrying out this highly complex process that can be categorized into several
ways.
Common
types to know
Broadly, there are two
major types, listed as under:
·
Endosteal (in the bone)
Endosteal is by far the most
commonly used implant technique for two stage dental implants. Using screws,
cylinders, blades and so on, the implants are surgically fixed into the jawbone.
Dental implants as these can hold about a couple or more prosthetic teeth.
·
Subperiosteal (on the bone)
Subperiosteal implants
are commonly employed in single stage operations. They are generally positioned
in the gum tissue on the jawbone as the metal frame posts protrude through the
gum and hold the prosthesis. Many patients encounter difficulties when wearing
their dentures, which is minimized considerably by this implant.
On the basis of
procedures, dental implants can be subdivided into the following:
Single Stage
Single Stage
When a single stage
dental implant procedure is in progress, a longer implant is usually placed
surgically inside the jaw such that it stays on the jawbone with the implant
level’s top fixed to the gum tissue, which is later stitched. During the
healing period, the abutment and crown are fixed without any additional
surgery. The only flaw remains in the form of being vulnerable to external
aspects, so caution must be exercised at the time of healing.
Two Stage
Two Stage
This procedure is meant
for placing the implant in the jaw bone and stitching the gum tissue. The reason why the stitch is made is basically
to render protection as the surrounding bones heal the scar and fuses it
altogether. As one of the most commonly practiced methods of dental implants , a minor surgery is followed
at the time of healing, to uncover the implant.
Procedures
for implants
In consultation with
your dentist and the periodontist, the treatment plan is devised so as to suit
your needs, types and specific conditions. Though the most commonly known
methods are mentioned above, few other situations demanding treatment methods
are as follows:
-Replacement of a
single tooth
-Replacement of several
teeth
-Replacement of all the
teeth
-Ridge Modification
-Sinus Augmentation
Cost
of availing implants
With all the benefits
and risks involved, dental implants are in vogue. Before availing them, it would be best to discuss
with your periodontist if your health conditions determine its use, at all. If
it does, then think of the cost factor. Since most cities have a higher
standard of living, expenses are likely to vary, depending on your place of
stay. Overall, getting implants is a tad expensive as the costs are inclusive
of the dentist fees, type of implant used and procedure, quantity needed and
also the insurance coverage, besides your location.
So make a wise decision
before saying yes to dental implants.
