If you are struggling with missing teeth and are considering dental implants in Mount Holly, NC, you might wonder what types of results you can expect with this procedure.
There are actually several types of restorations one can achieve through implants. In this short article, you can learn everything you need to know about two common types of dental implants: single-tooth implants and full-arch implants.
Single-tooth implants are artificial teeth used to replace one tooth at a time. They are usually the ideal solution for patients dealing with only a handful of missing teeth or teeth that are not close together on the arch.
Single-tooth implants are very durable and, with the right care, can last as long as 15 years or more. Even when they are worn down, usually only the dental crown sitting on top needs replacement, as the metal brackets and abutment are rarely damaged.
First, the dentist will make an incision in your gums to expose the bone and insert the metal post made from titanium into the jaw.
Once the surgery is over, your bone and surrounding tissue will start healing around the post. After around 6 months, the body usually fully heals, and patients can receive the abutment and finally, the dental crown, which are both permanently attached.
Full arch implants are designed for patients with severe dental loss or damage. Instead of getting singular implants, patients will receive four or more implants spread throughout the jaw, and then a full-arch denture is attached on top.
The denture can either be permanently attached to the implants or it may also be removable, depending on the patient’s preference.
The procedure is very similar to that of single-tooth implants. Only, instead of one metal post, you will receive all four or more implants inserted into the bone during the same surgery.
Sometimes, patients may require some preparation before their surgery. For example, if you have both missing and damaged teeth, the damaged ones will require extraction and will all be replaced by the full arch denture.
You will also receive a set of temporary dentures to protect the implants during the 6-month or longer healing period. These will allow you to properly eat and speak until you can complete the procedure.
Single-tooth implants are ideal for patients dealing with 1-2 missing teeth, while full arch implants are recommended when tooth loss is more severe.
However, it can depend a lot on your current oral health. Dr. Koneru can help you find out which of the two is the right solution to restore your smile.
Schedule a consultation online today, or call us at (704) 703-3393
