TYPES OF IMPLANTS

There are various types of implants which include full upper, anterior, full lower, posterior, and single-tooth.

Full upper replacements

The upper set of teeth is replaced with implants. Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

In some cases, full upper replacements can be removed.

Anterior replacement

Implants are used to replace the front teeth (also called incisors and cuspids). Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

Full lower replacement

The lower set of teeth is replaced with implants. Full lower replacement usually only uses four to six implants (near the front), which are used to anchor a denture. This obviates the need for denture adhesive.

Posterior replacement

Implants are used to replace the bicuspids and molars (the back teeth). Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows implants to take.
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

Single tooth replacement

Procedure steps include:

• Missing tooth root is replaced with an implant, which remains covered under the gum line.
• A healing period of up to six months allows the implant to take.
• The implant is uncovered and an extension attached.
• Replacement tooth is affixed to the implant and extension.