Types of Dental Implants
Kantor Dental provides our patients with dental implants tailored to each patient’s individual needs. There is no “one size fits all” approach for dental implants. We offer several options depending on how many teeth need replacing, your oral health concerns, and aesthetic goals.
Single Dental Implant
Patients who have lost a tooth in an accident or have a single tooth extracted due to a severe cavity or damage can replace the tooth with a dental implant. A single implant is a solution if an individual tooth needs replacing and the adjacent teeth and gums are healthy. A bone graft may be necessary to support the implant if the bone is too thin or the extraction socket is too large. The visible portion of the replacement tooth is a porcelain or composite crown created to resemble the surrounding teeth.
Multiple Dental Implants
Some patients may need more than a single replacement tooth. Multiple dental implants may be an option when more than one tooth is missing, but not all the teeth. If three or four teeth in a row are missing, we may place two titanium implants to support a fixed, permanent bridge. The bridge functions like natural teeth with the force of chewing distributed over the implants. Patients who currently wear a fixed bridge attached to the adjacent teeth may prefer an implant per tooth because they are easier to clean, easier to repair, and can be flossed normally.
Full Arch Implants
The full arch is one of the most popular dental implant options in the San Rafael area. These implants can replace an entire row of upper or lower teeth. If you are missing all or nearly all your teeth, full arch implants can restore your smile and bite force while helping preserve the integrity and strength of your jawbone.
Between four and six implants are placed in the affected jawbone to support a full arch of replacement teeth. This one-piece set of teeth resembles a denture but is slimmer, lighter, and does not cover the roof of the mouth. The result is a fully functional set of teeth that never have to be removed for cleaning or sleeping.
Implant Supported Dentures
Similar in look and feel to full arch implants, implant-supported dentures use between four and six implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. However, instead of permanently attaching to the implants, the denture snaps or clicks into place on a metal bar or posts. The patient removes the denture at night for cleaning and sleeping. Unlike traditional dentures, these do not cover the roof of the mouth and do not shift or slip. However, they must be cared for like traditional dentures and wear out more quickly than full arch implants. The up-front cost for implant-supported dentures is lower than that of full arch implants. Removable dentures can be better than fixed dentures because you have better lip support and fewer wrinkles and it is much easier to clean and repair.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental implants are a viable option whether you are missing one or all your teeth. Dr. Kantor evaluates each patient individually to determine what type of dental implant is appropriate for your needs and budget. We explain the options in detail and help you choose the best solution for your missing teeth. Our goal is your total oral health and function while keeping aesthetics in mind.
Schedule a consultation to learn more about how our dental implant options can restore your smile and improve your quality of life. Our office can be reached at San Rafael Office Phone Number 415-492-1616, or you can request an appointment online.
