Dental implants have drastically developed and improved from an ancient age of 1952. In this year, a Swedish doctor accidently developed implants which are now, one of the best choices to substitute for a natural tooth loss. Implants are manufactured using several materials for crowns and abutments. This is why dentists have tons of options in implants for the specific needs of the patient’s treatment.
There are various ways in which dental implants can be classified. Whether it be size or shape or the procedure, you can find an ideal dental implant as per your needs without any hassle. Here are different categories in which implants lie:
Types of Procedures
- Single-Stage Implants
In this procedure, a single-piece implant of longer length is inserted through the gum once it is positioned in the jaw bone. Without the need of additional surgery, additional abutment and crown can be placed over the implant.
- Two-Stage Implants
In this method, the implant is placed surgically into the jaw bone so that it lies underneath the gum. After that, forcefully, the gum tissue is closed by stitching to protect the implant. Side by side, gum tissue and bone heals and fuses with it. Once the healing is completed, the implant is uncovered to place an abutment and crown.
Types of Connectors in Dental Implants
Mostly, the dental implants are made from a material called titanium but the surface material can be different. The material is the major factor behind longevity and durability of the implant. The abutment and restoration should be connected, screwed or attached to the implant head/connectors. Here are different kinds of connectors present:
- External Hex Connector
External hex connector is hexagonal shaped which is set on the top of the implant.
Internal Hex Connector
These connectors are different. Yes, they are hexagonal shaped too but have a hole on the top so that the dentist can screw the abutment or restoration into the dental implant’s head.
Internal Octagon Connector
Internal octagonal connectors also have an opening on their head so as to screw the restoration or the abutment to the dental implant’s head.
Types of Sizes/Platforms of Dental Implants
Depending on different situations, dental implants can be classified on different sizes. This can be determined where the dental implant is going to be placed in the jaw bone.
- Narrow/Mini Platform
When people have the minimal bone density or minute space between tooth roots for a standard sized implant, the dentists go for mini or narrow platform dental implants. They come in a diameter range from 2mm to 3.5mm.
- Standard Platform
If you need an implant in the front part of your mouth, standard platform implants will be ideal for you. They come in a diameter range from 3.5mm to 4.2mm.
Wide Platform
In case, you need to replace molars, wide platform dental implants will perform well as compared to standard ones. They come in a diameter range from 4.2mm to 6mm.
Types of Shapes of Connectors of Dental Implants
The body design of dental implants can be classified in various shapes on the macroscopic level:
- Cylinder
- Plateau
- Thread
- Solid
- Perforated
- Hollow
All these above-listed shapes are used by the dentists in different situations and treatments. According to the bone density and space, different shaped implants can be placed in the jaw bone.
Types of Surfaces of Dental Implants
As a patient, you can choose the surface of the implant from a list of different type of surfaces. If you do not prefer screwed shape, the smooth surface implant is the best for you. Another type of surface is coated which states that connector part is coated with a sturdy material due to which it makes it durable for a long time.
So, these are various ways in which dental implants can be classified. It’s you who has to decide, with the dentist, which dental implant will you prefer.
