Dental Implants - Types

There are 5 basic types of dental implants available and the type chosen for a particular patient depends upon a number of factors. The size and condition of the patient’s natural jawbone is probably the main factor and of course no two patients are the same. Some jawbones can be wide and deep and others narrow and shallow with many variations in between.

The most commonly used material used for implants is the inert metal titanium because it has been found to fuse well with live bone tissue in the jawbone. This fusion process is known as 'osseointegration'. The highly skilled work of inserting implants is carried out by a perodontist or oral surgeon who operates from within a hospital environment or more likely from a private clinic.

Root Form Implants

As the name suggests, root form implants resemble the root of a tooth but are formed like a self-tapping screw which gives it a good surface area for maximum fusion to the living bone. It is inserted by screwing the implant into a hole previously drilled into the jawbone or into the cavity left from an extraction. The implant then acts as a root or foundation for a new prosthetic crown. However, this type of implant can only be used if there is sufficient width and depth to the jawbone. Sometimes it is necessary to graft additional bone to the jawbone before dental implants can be considered.

Plate Form Implants

If there is insufficient live bone structure because the jawbone is too narrow or not deep enough then plate form implants is another option the perodontist will consider. This takes the form of a long narrow strip of titanium which is inserted between the jawbone and the gum and will fuse with the jawbone giving a foundation for a number of new prosthetic crowns if required. Sometimes it may also be necessary to graft additional bone if the jawbone is in a poor condition before the implant can be inserted.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are an option used where the condition of the jawbone is such that an insert is not possible and a bone graft is not feasible. The jawbone is exposed and a mould impression taken from which the subperiosteal implant is created and placed on top of the jawbone under the gum and fusion takes place between the jawbone and the subperiosteal implant. Sometimes a CAT scan is taken of the patient’s jaw which then allows the subperiosteal implant to be made without first exposing the jawbone which would otherwise require a two stage surgical operation.

Artificial Bone Substitute

This is a synthetic material which has similar properties to natural bone and will cling to the live jawbone and grow like real bone. This type of implant is usually used as a foundation for dentures.

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are similar to subperiosteal in that they are moulded or shaped to fit in a cavity in the jaw rather than sit on top of the jaw.

This article is intended only to give a very basic outline of the types of dental implants considered by the perodontist or oral surgeon. Sometimes a variation or combination of the types described may be used but it is important that if you are considering this type of dental treatment that you consult your dentist or a perodotist to establish what is the most suitable type of treatment for your unique situation.

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