While dental implants have been around since the 1950s, recent advancements in dental procedures have made dental implants routine. There are currently over 40 types of dental implants offered to patients. Here are some of the most common types we use in our dental office in Van Nuys:
• Traditional, or conventional, implants are the most common implant type and are used to replace a single or pair of missing teeth. The implant, a titanium or ceramic screw, is set into the bone and a crown is attached to the implant. A minimum of four implants are required to replace an entire set of upper or lower teeth.
• Mini and micro implants. Mini implants are like traditional implants, but are a tiny bit smaller to fit in tighter spaces. Micro implants are even smaller and used only when the space between teeth is very small.
• Permanent bridge implants work virtually the same as conventional implants and are used to bridge, or fill in gaps, of missing teeth.
• Denture-support implants are designed to hold a full set of dentures in place and have special attachments pins that snap into the dentures. Denture-support implants are typically placed in the lower jaw due to regular lower dentures usually being less stable than uppers. However, these implants are often used for upper dentures as well. This system allows dentures to be removed as needed for regularly maintenance and cleaning.
• Removable bridge implants work identical to denture-supported implants, but only support a few teeth. The bridge can be removed at will by the patient.
• Temporary implants may be used in cases where bridgework is meant to be temporary. The bridgework is used while the actual replacement teeth are being made.
• Tooth-movement implants may be used in some situations when teeth need to be shifted slightly. These types of dental implants are typically used in orthodontic procedures that often require teeth be moved slightly for proper alignment. These implants anchor the teeth to ensure the teeth go where intended, prevent the teeth from moving too far and prevent excess movement.
If you are looking for dental implants dentist in Van Nuys give us a call and we will be happy to schedule an appointment for you.