Root form dental implants
This is the most common and popular type of implant. Here at Caliber over 98% of dental implants that we place are root form implants. A small number of patients are unable to have a standard implant due to a serious deterioration in bone density or a too thin jawbone, which is unable to support this type of implant.
Your implant dentist will advise you about the most suitable type of implant for you which depends upon the volume of tissue within your jawbone. There needs to be a sufficient amount of bone density for a root form implant to be successful.
If you for whatever reason are unable to have the root form implant then plate form implants, zygomatic dental implants or mini dental implants are other options. There is also the subperiosteal implant which consists of a metal framework which fits over the jawbone, acting as a set of roots. A series of posts extend through this framework which acts as attachments for the crowns.
The chances are that you will have the root form implant. This implant is also known as an ‘endosseous implant’ which refers to the fact that it is implanted into the bone. It is inserted in a single, immediate loading procedure or as a two stage ‘delayed loading’ process.
The root form implant closely resembles, in size and shape, a natural tooth.
What do root form implants look like?
These implants are very similar to small screws or nails and are available in a variety of widths and lengths.
Advantages of root form implants
There are several advantages of these implants which include:
- Realism (they look very like a natural tooth)
- Strong
- Long lasting
Plus they are extremely effective at fusing with living bone, which increases the chance of a successful implant.
Any downsides to root form implants?
There are disadvantages with all types of implants. The root form implant is extremely popular but there are a few minor issues, which include:
- Unsuitable for narrow or thin jawbones
- Costly: more expensive than dentures or a bridge
- Not suited to people with poor general health
We have mentioned about them being unsuitable for patients with a narrow or thin jawbone. There is the possibility of having a bone graft, which increases the width and density of the jaw. But this is dependent on the advice your implant dentist.
This type of implant has a high level of tensile strength, which ensures it against the risk of fracture and failure. The reason for that is zirconium is more elastic than other materials, which reduce the risk of breakage. And it is able to withstand extreme changes in temperature.