ART Dentistry Dental Implants 101: A Quick Guide | Page 3

in the mouth. Teeth in a Day makes the implant secure enough so that the placement of the
tooth is accurate and there will be reduced pressure on the new tooth.
You may also want to ask your doctor about getting mini dental implants or MDIs. These are
also known as narrow or small diameter implants. The implants are about the size of a
toothpick and they are much narrower than traditional dental implants. Techniques that are
not as invasive are used to keep a lower denture in place.
Can You Make Implants Out of Dentures?
Dentures can’t be transformed into implants. This is because the implants are screws made of
metal that are inserted into the jawbone. The screws and their positioning serve as an anchor
to keep artificial teeth in place. The implants help to keep the dentures from falling out and are
part of the implant process. It’s possible to have implants under existing dentures for additional
stability. This is only the case if the dentures you have are in great condition. Have your
dentures examined if you want to use this option. Remember that dental implants are fixed
into the jawbone. This means that teeth are replaced similar to the way that natural teeth are
replaced.
Dentures are most commonly used in patients who wear partial or full dentures. The implants
can keep a removable overdentures in place. The overdentures are snapped over the implants
and reduces or eliminates the need for denture adhesives or glue. Implants can also be used to
hold a fixed denture. This is when the dentures are bolted to the implants using titanium. These
can only be surgically removed from your mouth by a dentist.
Dental implants come in a variety or types, sizes and heights. The dental implant expert can
determine the right option for you based on your needs.
Two Main Implant Types
The two types of dental implants are endosteal and subperiosteal. For endosteal implants, the
implants are put inside of the jawbone. These are made from titanium in most cases and are
shaped like tiny screws. Endosteal implants are used most commonly. Subperiosteal implants
are placed under the gums and on or above the jawbone. If you don’t have a healthy jawbone
or don’t want a bone augmentation to rebuild the bone, subperiosteal implants are the best
option.
If your jawbone can’t support dental implants at all, there are some techniques that the oral
surgeon can use to restore your jawline and rebuild your bone. This helps to provide the right
foundation for the implants. Bone augmentation involves regenerating or restoring the
jawbone when the bone is not healthy or strong enough to support the implant. According to
research, growth factors and bone additives fortify the jawbone and this usually yields
successful results.