When it comes to oral implantology in Centennial, Colorado, and neighboring areas, there is a spectrum of options available, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Dr. Dan Thousand and Dr. Katelyn Fleming, renowned figures in the realm of dental implantology, have worked with a vast number of patients, providing insights, treatment options and care tailored to individual needs.
Endosteal Implants
By far the most utilized, endosteal implants are the main option for most patients. In fact, a staggering 90% or more of patients only require endosteal dental implants. Primarily these implants are composed of titanium and resemble screws that are embedded directly into the jawbone. After the procedure, the bone naturally fuses with the implant, a phenomenon termed osseointegration. Upon healing, a crown is fastened to the implant, serving as the replacement tooth. These implants are particularly suited for patients boasting good jawbone quality and volume, which sometimes needs to be rebuilt before placing the implant through bone grafting.
Transosteal Implants
While rarely used today, transosteal implants are options only for very specific cases. These implants consist of either a U-shaped metal bracket or a single pin, traversing the entirety of the lower jaw. The implant placement involves drilling a small hole spanning the width of the mandible, inserting the implant from below. The implant’s top portion protrudes through the gum, visible within the oral cavity. This is still sometimes used for those patients with significant bone degradation and a slender mandible which might be unfit for endosteal implants and cannot receive a bone graft.
Subperiosteal Implants
Even more rarely used than transosteal implants, this procedure used to be completed for patients with limited jawbone tissue and were not candidates for bone augmentation procedures. They featured a metal framework resting directly on the jawbone but shielded and held in place by the gum tissue. There were no screws involved. A mold of the patient’s jawbone was taken to build a custom metal cage that the gum tissues would grow over. Once positioned, the attachment posts would emerge from the gums to anchor the prosthetic teeth. This was best suited for individuals with basically no bone height.
Zygomatic Implants
For those with severe upper jawbone loss, zygomatic implants, named after the zygoma or cheekbone, offer a solution. These are longer than endosteal implants, but they anchor firmly into bone all the same. Rather than traditional jawbone placement, these implants fasten into the cheekbone, or zygomatic bone. Given the intricacies involved, this option is considered only when there is insufficient upper jaw bone, and bone grafting is not a viable choice. This is an alternative for those with substantial upper jaw bone degradation.
Oral implantology has transformed countless smiles in Centennial and other areas like Highlands Ranch, Greenwood Village, Centennial and Roxborough. With the expertise of our periodontist, patients can navigate their options and select the best implant type catering to their unique needs at Periodontal Associates. As with any medical procedure, it is pivotal to seek counsel from seasoned experts to ensure optimal outcomes. Call us at 303-795-5700 to schedule your consultation today.