Dental Implants in Willoughby Hills, OH

Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal Dental Implants

The most common type of dental implant is endosteal. With endosteal dental implants, the post gets inserted directly into the bone and is used for those who have enough bone structure to support it.

There are various dental implant treatments available today. However, each dental office offers different options. To learn more about the options offered at our Willoughby Hills dental practice, contact Dr. Wallace today.

Single-Tooth Dental Implants

Single-tooth dental implants completely replace one lost tooth from root to crown. It involves the placement of a titanium implant into the jawbone that serves as the foundation for a custom-made prosthetic single-tooth replacement itself. Most patients receive a dental crown as the visible portion of their implant treatment. A single-tooth replacement with a dental implant provides patients with a permanent solution for missing or damaged teeth.

All-On-Four

All-on-four dental implants are full-arch replacement options. It involves placing four dental implants in the upper or lower jawbone and securing a full arch of prosthetic teeth to them. The All-on-four technique is less invasive and can be completed in one day, providing a stable and durable foundation for prosthetic teeth. All-on-four implants are a good option for those who have lower bone density, as they allow for the restoration of a full arch of teeth while using fewer implant posts.

Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia dental implants are similar to traditional implants, in that they’re strong, sturdy, and integrate with the jawbone, but don’t utilize any metal. Zirconia is a type of ceramic material with biocompatibility and aesthetic advantages. They’re hypoallergenic, which makes them a great alternative for patients who are sensitive to metals. Additionally, zirconia implants are bioinert, meaning they’ll never trigger chemical reactions that can migrate to other sites of your body or corrode.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are excellent options for replacing multiple teeth. A traditional dental bridge or artificial tooth root is anchored to the jaw using dental implants. The bridge is typically made up of two or more artificial teeth that are connected and attached to the implant abutments. The number of posts needed will vary depending on the size of the bridge.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are removable appliances anchored to the mouth and jaw using dental implants. They provide a more secure fit and eliminate the messy adhesives that removable dentures typically need. Implant-supported dentures are also a more stable option than traditional dentures and can improve overall oral health by providing stimulation to the jawbone.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are a smaller version of traditional implants. They’re a less invasive implant surgery option typically used to replace a single tooth or stabilize a loose denture. They shorten the healing process and have a lower cost. However, they may not be suitable for patients who don’t have adequate bone density.

Immediate-Load “Same Day” Dental Implants

Immediate-load dental implants, also known as same-day implants, are done in one appointment. With immediate-load implants, dentists place the implant and prosthetic tooth in the mouth at the same time, allowing the patient to leave the dental office with a fully functional replacement tooth after just one dental implant procedure.

Zygomatic Dental Implants

Zygomatic dental implants can restore lost teeth for patients who don’t have enough jawbone density to support a traditional endosteal implant. 

Subperiosteal Dental Implants

Subperiosteal dental implants sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue. Subperiosteal implants are rarely ever used because of modern technological advancements in the field of implant dentistry.

Dental Implant Procedure

When it comes to getting standard dental implants, the process involves various stages to replace missing teeth with artificial tooth roots and prosthetic crowns. Your Willoughby Hills dentist will begin by conducting a comprehensive dental exam to assess your oral health and create a customized treatment plan, which may include evaluating your need for a bone graft if the jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft. During the surgical phase, a small titanium implant will then be surgically placed into your jawbone, which will act as the foundation for the replacement tooth.

Over several months, the implant will fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. However, there is always a risk of complications that can occur soon after the dental implant placement, such as the risk of implant failure due to insufficient bone fusion. If this happens, additional surgical procedures may be needed to fix or replace the implant system. For many patients, dental surgery can be daunting, which is why it’s crucial to approach it with care. Dr. Wallace may offer options like sedation to alleviate fears and discomfort associated with the surgical procedure. Once the implant has been firmly integrated, an abutment will be attached to it, and a custom-made crown will be placed on top, restoring the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

What’s the Best Implant Treatment Option for You?

You’ll want to consider your individual dental needs and smile goals when determining the best dental implant treatment. Factors such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone, and your budget all play a role in determining the best option. When weighing your options, you should also evaluate the dental implant benefits and costs. Your Willoughby Hills dentist can help you evaluate your options and make a recommendation.