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A missing tooth can make an individual self-conscious while interacting, smiling, or posing for a picture. Moreover, one or more missing teeth could hinder basic functions such as chewing - leading to an alteration in food habits. This, in turn, could lead to additional physical health problems. In order to avoid all of these, it is best to cover the empty space left by a missing tooth with an implant restoration.

Here, we will see in detail the different types of dental implants and what would suit one best:

Types

Dental implants can be classified based on their placement mechanism as follows:

• Endosteal: Endosteal dental implants are screws that are drilled into the jaw to replicate tooth roots. These are the most popular type, and they come in screw, cylinder, and blade types. The dentist picks one of these based on a case-to-case scenario. Endosteal implants are stable and feel like natural tooth roots.
• Subperiosteal: Subperiosteal implants are bracket-like appliances that are placed over the gum and are supported by the soft tissues. These offer strength to dentures but are not as stable as endosteal implants. Although, these can be fitted much faster since they only need to be fixed over the gum.

Coatings

Coatings for titanium implants may vary to offer different levels of surface roughness to encourage bone contact and quicker healing. Zirconia, roughened or acid-etched surfaces, plasma-sprayed titanium or hydroxyapatite coating, and so on are but a few options.

Connectors

Connectors are the parts of the implant that attach to the restoration or dental crown. Internal or external hex connectors and internal octagon connectors are two of the most popular connectors that are shaped as hexagons or octagons, respectively.

Sizes

Implants are available in different sizes - standard, wide, and narrow to suit the varying needs of different patients. While an implant at the back of the mouth could be 6mm in diameter, a narrow implant would be the best fit for teeth in the front that has limited space.

Method of Attachment

The method of attachment of implants varies from case-to-case and the strength of the jawbone. The types are - one-day implants, two-stage implants, single implants, multiple implants, etc.

Typically, the dentist will suggest options that work best for you. Among the options, choose those that are safe and long-lasting so that you do not need to worry about getting another set of implants at a later point in life.