While losing teeth is a relatively common experience for many individuals around the world, modern technology has made it so that living with fewer teeth is a choice rather than a consequence. Dental implants can make all of the difference in the lives of those who suffer from losing a tooth.

There are several different reasons why someone could lose a tooth. These reasons include but are not limited to: Dental decay, trauma to a tooth, and complications from diseases like diabetes. Due the fact that everyone has a different dental history, dental implants need to be as unique as the people who receive them in order for them to work properly.

There are two main types of dental implants that are commonly performed.

Endosteal Implants. Endosteal implants are performed by replacing one's tooth with a false tooth that has the roots of an abutment, which in common language is basically a screw. Individuals undergo surgery to have the tooth implanted directly into their jaw bone, making it very stable for future years. Once the individual has healed from the surgery to put the abutment into their jaw, a permanent crown is placed over the false tooth, supplying strength for all future chewing of food. This type of implant is a great option for people who have a healthy jawbone, or for those who are alright with getting a bone graft to augment their jawbone.

Subperiosteal Implants. Subperiosteal implants are generally for those who suffer from unhealthy jawbones or lack sufficient bone surface area to fit an abutment. A subperiosteal implant is when a metal framework is placed onto the jawbone, instead of being implanted into it. This procedure is done in several steps. First, the dentist or oral surgeon will take a mold of the jawbone by opening the gums in the needed area and noting all of the contours that are present. The gums are then closed again, awaiting a perfect mold of the jaw that will fit snug. Once that is ready, a second surgery will take place in which that perfect mold or bridge will be screwed into place on the jaw with very small screws. A third surgery will be needed after healing of the gums to then cement replacement teeth onto the mold, which should look very natural and last for years.

With either type of implant, strong dental hygiene after surgeries is crucial in order to make sure that the implants stay strong and healthy. Contact a dental office, like  Henderson Family Dentistry, for more help.