The 3 Implant Types, Explained!

To fix the gaps in your smile, you may want to consider dental implants. This restoration treatment would give you artificial teeth to replace those you lost! That said, there’s more than one type of implant. Each one is suited for unique patients with unique dental needs. Therefore, you’ll need to learn their differences to know which is best for you. Luckily, your Deland dentist is here to help. Read on to learn the three major types of dental implants, as well as whether you qualify for one of them.

The Three Major Bridge Types

To put it plainly, dental implants come in three types: single, bridge, and denture. Their varying features, taken together, cover nearly all dental restoration problems.

Single Type

The single type is what most consider the traditional dental implant. It replaces an individual tooth, placing a titanium post in your jawbone’s empty socket. As new bone grows around said post, the implant fuses with your jaw until it’s as secure as any other pearly white.

Bridge Type

A regular dental bridge has two crowns holding an artificial tooth. Meanwhile, an implant-supported bridge has crowns with dental implants affixed on either side.

The procedure for this restoration is similar to the single-tooth type. However, the teeth missing in the middle of the gap will not receive an implant.

Denture Type (i.e., Implant-Retained Dentures)

While a standard denture is an artificial arch of teeth, an implant-retained one is secured to the jaw with dental implants. In other words, it doesn’t simply sit on top of your gum line. Consequently, it doesn’t slip, slide, click, or fall out during tasks like eating or speaking.

A dentist will place four single-type dental implants along your arch to create this denture. Once these new teeth fully heal, you’ll receive a custom denture that fastens to them.

Who Qualifies for Which Kind?

If you have one or more missing teeth that aren’t adjacent to each other, then a single tooth dental implant may be your best option. On the other hand, a bridge type would work to replace multiple missing teeth adjacent to each other. Lastly, implant-retained dentures are ideal for those with many missing teeth; they’d restore your smile and confidence.

To know whether the implants you need are single, bridge, or denture types, assess your needs carefully. Your local dentist can give a recommendation based on their informed exam.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Cowell is a dentist based in Deland, FL. Thanks to earning his DMD from the University of Florida, he has the skill and expertise to offer comprehensive dental care. As such, he provides top-tier preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency treatments. You can trust that his relaxed-yet-effective approach will give you a dreamy smile! Dr. Caldwell practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable at his website or by phone at (817)-294-8821.