All Different Uses Of Implants - Everything To Know

Dental implants are so versatile they can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, and even a full arch of teeth. By replacing lost teeth with implants, you can also help to prevent the bone loss that occurs once a tooth is lost. Bone loss in the jaw can lead to additional tooth loss, as well as a sunken-in appearance that is characteristic of prematurely aged people. However, when you use dental implants to maintain your natural teeth in place, you can preserve your youthful appearance for many years to come.

Here are the major applications of dental implants.

• Replacing missing teeth

Dental implants are a popular option for replacing one or more missing teeth. They are an excellent long-term solution that can last a lifetime with proper care. Implants replace both the lost tooth and its root. The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, and once it has integrated into the bone, abutments are placed on top of it to connect the implant to the replacement tooth. Once healed, patients can return to their normal daily routines. Unlike bridges or removable partial dentures that rest on the gum line, implants actually become fused with the bone in your jaw to provide a stable foundation from which you can securely attach your replacement teeth. This not only allows you to have beautiful-looking teeth but also improves the health of your jaw and mouth by preventing bone loss in the jaw bone. 

For patients missing all their teeth, All-on-4® dental implants provide a fixed option that does not require support from surrounding teeth. By using just four strategically placed implant posts, an entire arch of missing teeth can be replaced with a permanent set of fixed replacement teeth. These restorations are stable and strong but can still be removed for thorough cleaning and maintenance. Some patients may benefit from All-on-6® dental implants if more support for the denture is needed. Consult your dental professional to determine which type of restoration is right for you.

• Supporting crowns and bridgework

Dental implants can support both dental crowns and traditional bridges. When one or more natural teeth are missing, the jaw can shift, and the face shape can change around the remaining teeth due to bone loss. Implant-supported restorations can help stabilize your bite and preserve your smile’s appearance for years to come.

Traditional bridges use adjacent healthy teeth as anchors to support a replacement tooth or teeth in between. A metal framework is fabricated and anchored to the supporting teeth, and the replacement tooth is then attached to the bridge. However, this can cause damage to the support teeth and negatively affect the patient’s ability to chew and speak. Because dental implant treatment uses posts to replace lost tooth roots, they can provide the necessary support for the restoration without compromising any nearby teeth in the process. The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and given several weeks to heal before attaching the crown or bridge. The result is a strong, secure restoration that restores normal function and beauty to the patient’s smile.

• Supporting a partial denture

A dental implant can support a removable partial denture using a series of strategically placed implants. Dental implants provide a more natural look, feel, and function than traditional appliances such as clasps. Along with being more stable and comfortable, they allow you to chew more effectively and speak more clearly. Another benefit of implant-supported partial dentures is that they don’t require an adhesive to secure the appliance in place. They’re held firmly in place by four dental implants that are inserted into the jawbone as anchors.

Bishop Family Dental, located in Salt Lake City, UT, is equipped with excellent amenities and expert dentists who offer patients the best dental care services. Dial (801) 274-2500 and book an appointment with the dentist to learn more about dental care services and to receive a complete dental checkup.