Tooth loss affects not only your physical appearance but also your confidence and quality of life. Modern dentistry has presented a solution to this problem through endosteal implants. Their long-term benefits and high success rates have made them an attractive choice for people suffering from tooth loss. If you are also among them, this is the right place for you. In this article, we are going to discuss the ins and outs of endosteal implants. So keep reading!
Endosteal implants are a restorative option for patients with missing teeth. They are placed inside the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots. These artificial roots provide the support and stability needed for the crown placed over it.
Endosteal implants are the most widely acknowledged dental implants due to their durability and high success rate. They have three parts.
Endosteal implants involve getting a metal post inserted in your jaw, which makes it an invasive procedure. That’s why it is not suitable for everyone. The following are the conditions under which your dentist will not allow you to have an endosteal implant.
Patients with poor oral hygiene develop periodontal diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, or oral pathologies. If you have them, the dentist will treat them beforehand.
Patients who are suffering from long-term illnesses such as diabetes, osteoporosis, or autoimmune disorders also cannot have endosteal dental implants because of the impairment of healing and repair.
Patients who do not have enough bone to support an endosteal implant can’t get them. In such cases, your dentist will opt for subperiosteal implants or bone augmenting procedures like bone grafting or sinus lift.
Children or adolescents who are still in their growing years also can not get endosteal implants.
The difference between endosteal vs. subperiosteal implants is based on their location.
When compared to sub-periosteal implants, endosteal implants hold the benefit of being a more stable option. They are available in the form of screws, blades, or cylinders that are placed ‘in’ the alveolar bone, fusing to it through a process called osseointegration. Although these implants require sufficient bone volume and density, they offer long-term durability.
On the other hand, subperiosteal implants are the type of implants that are placed ‘on’ your alveolar bone. These implants comprise a metal framework placed over your jawbone beneath the gums. This metal framework consists of mini-implants that are fixed to your bone and, from the other side, protrude through the gums for crown attachment.
This type of implant is used for patients who do not have enough bone volume for traditional implants and do not want to undergo bone augmentation procedures. Although less invasive, these implants have a higher chance of failure due to the absence of osseointegration.
When you first visit your dental practitioner to get an implant, they will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for it. If you are, the procedure will comprise three steps.
This is the first step in which imaging procedures such as OPGs and Periapical radiographs are taken at the site of missing teeth. This imaging accesses your oral tissues and jaw density. Pathologies, if found, will be treated before starting the placement procedure.
Afterward, your dentist will numb the area under surgery with a local anesthetic. Once anesthesia is achieved, they incise the soft tissues and retract them to expose the underlying bone. Then, the implant’s titanium post is drilled inside your jawbone.
The post is given at least 3 to 6 months to heal and fuse completely with the bone. In the meantime, the dentist might place temporary crowns over it for your convenience.
After the healing period, the post is evaluated to determine its stability. If stable, the abutment is placed over it, followed by the crown. These crowns are customized to match your teeth’ size and color so they do not look out of place.
If the tooth loss is extensive, you can also get bridges instead of crowns to support more teeth. These artificial teeth can either be fixed or removable, according to your preference.
After getting an endosteal implant, you may experience bleeding, swelling, and pain. All of these symptoms are natural, and there is nothing to worry about. However, here are some tips for aftercare to maintain your implants for a longer period of time.
Generally, endosteal implants for a single tooth cost between $3000 and $5000. However, this cost varies depending upon the location, material, number of implants, and your dentist’s expertise. If you do not have enough bone, the cost of a bone graft or a sinus lift procedure is also added to it.
The cost looks reasonable considering the lifespan of endosteal implants, which is about 10-15 years. Yet, discuss the expenses with your insurance provider before going for an endosteal implant.
To sum up, getting the right type of dental implant is essential to restore the aesthetics and function of your teeth. Endosteal implants offer a stable option for those with sufficient bone, while periosteal implants are a good alternative for those without.
If you are considering getting endosteal implants, contact us. Our dentists at Paramus Park, NJ, offer durable and cost-effective options for dental implants in Paramus Park, NJ. So reach out now and start your journey towards a lasting dental solution.