Types of dental implants

Unless it’s at the front of your mouth, missing a tooth might not seem like a big deal. But over time, that little gap might start affecting how you chew, the food you can eat, or make you more conscious when you’re talking or laughing.

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They look, feel and function like real teeth. But, there’s more than one type of dental implant. Depending on how many teeth you are missing, the condition of your jawbone and what you want to achieve, there are several options to consider.

Firstly, let’s talk about how dental implants work

Unlike dentures, which sit on top of your gums, dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth. A small implant, usually made from titanium, is placed into the jawbone. Over time, the surrounding bone heals around it, creating a foundation for a replacement tooth or teeth.

Once healed, a crown, bridge or denture can be attached to the implant. The implant feels secure, looks natural and allows you to get back to eating and smiling with confidence.
The type of dental implant you need depends on how many teeth you’re replacing.

Single tooth implants: When you’re missing one tooth

If you’ve lost one tooth due to an injury, decay or another dental problem, a single dental implant could be the best option. Instead of using surrounding teeth for support, a single implant is placed into the jawbone and topped with a custom-made crown.

One of the biggest benefits of this is that the surrounding healthy teeth generally don’t need to be altered, unlike a traditional dental bridge. The replacement is designed to blend in with your natural teeth, so most people won’t notice the difference.

Implant-supported bridges: Replacing several teeth

What happens if you’re missing two or three teeth that are next to each other?

You don’t necessarily need a separate implant for every missing tooth. An implant-supported bridge uses strategically positioned implants to support several replacement teeth. This can provide a fixed solution without relying on surrounding natural teeth.

At Dentist Direct, we’ll assess the space, available bone and the number of implants needed to see if they can support the bridge properly.

All-on-4 dental implants: For a full arch

If you’ve lost most or all of your teeth, we need to look at different options.

Instead of replacing every tooth with an individual implant, All-On-4 treatment uses four strategically positioned implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth. It provides a fixed alternative to traditional removable dentures, giving you greater stability when eating and speaking.

If you’ve struggled with loose dentures or extensive tooth loss, this approach can be absolutely life-changing. At Dentist Direct, we offer All-On-4 dental implants for suitable patients, with treatment planned around your individual oral health and needs.
It’s important to remember that not everyone is a candidate, but through a thorough assessment, we can decide if it’s the right approach.

Implant-supported dentures: Another option

Dentures might be a great option for some people, but others struggle with the movement, slipping and discomfort associated with traditional dentures.

Implant-supported dentures attach to implants placed in the jaw, providing additional stability compared with conventional dentures. Depending on the design, they can be removable for cleaning or fixed in place.

Which type of dental implant works best?

It depends on the individual. As professional Hervey Bay dentists, we’ll consider how many teeth you’re missing, the health of your gums, the amount of jawbone available and your overall dental health.

We’ll consider your needs, too. Some people want a fixed replacement that stays in place, while others prefer a removable option that’s easier to clean. Cost, treatment time and whether additional dental treatment is needed can also influence the decision.

Looking for dental implants in Hervey Bay?

Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, dental implants could be the right solution. At Dentist Direct, our experienced team of dentists will assess your oral health, explain the different types of implants and help you understand which treatments are most suitable. We use high-quality dental implants designed to look, feel and function like natural teeth, with a focus on helping you feel comfortable and confident in your smile.

If you’re considering dental implants in Hervey Bay, we’d love to help you explore your options. Contact us to arrange a consultation and take the next step towards a smile you feel good about.