DIFFERENT TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANT RESTORATIONS

Single Tooth Implants, Full Mouth Implants, Dental Implant Bridges, and Dentures are all dental restoration options. Check out the breakdown below for different types of dental implants so you can distinguish them and see which case may be right for you:



Single Tooth Implants

Replace individual missing teeth and are highly stable.

  • Purpose: Used to replace a single missing tooth.
  • Implant Restoration Type: Typically involves one dental implant surgically placed in the jawbone, topped with a crown to mimic the natural tooth.
  • Advantages: Offers a natural and stable replacement for the missing tooth, without affecting adjacent teeth.

Full Mouth Implants

Replace all teeth in an arch and are a permanent and stable solution.

  • Purpose: Used to replace all the teeth in one or both dental arches (upper or lower jaw).
  • Implant Restoration Type: In cases like All-on-4 or All-on-6 implant dentistry methods, multiple implants are used to support a full set of teeth made up of individual crowns or a full set of prosthesis.
  • Advantages: Full mouth dental implant surgery provides a permanent and stable solution for those with significant tooth loss, restoring full chewing capability and aesthetics.

Dental Implant Bridges

Are used to replace missing teeth by bridging the gap, and they can be supported by natural teeth or dental implants.

  • Purpose: Used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between natural teeth.
  • Implant Restoration Type: Can be supported by natural teeth (traditional bridge) or dental implants (implant-supported bridge).
  • Advantages: Can be a less invasive option, especially when natural teeth are used as support. However, implant-supported bridges are more stable and do not rely on natural teeth.

Dentures

Replace multiple or all teeth and can be removable or secured with dental implants for improved stability.

  • Purpose: Used to replace multiple or all missing teeth in an arch.
  • Implant Restoration Type: Traditional dentures are removable and sit on the gums, while implant-retained dentures use dental implants to improve the retention of the denture in place.
  • Advantages: Removable dentures are more affordable and non-invasive, but they can be less stable and may require adhesives. Implant-retained dentures offer greater stability and comfort.

The main differences are in the number of teeth being replaced, the type of support (natural teeth, dental implants, or nothing), and the invasiveness of the procedure. If you have any other questions about dental implants, check out our Implant Dentistry FAQs.