Types of Dental Implants: Why We Place Traditional Implants

Why We Prefer Traditional Titanium Implants

Today, dental implants are made from either titanium or zirconia. They can be traditional (full size) or mini, and they are available in a variety of shapes. 

Size

Dr. Stofer places full-size implants because they are more durable, and provide greater support to your restorations than mini implants. Traditional dental implants are approximately 3 to 6 millimeters in diameter, while mini dental implants are about half that size. Full-size implants are embedded deeper within the jaw bone, and have a larger surface area. Ultimately, this means they are less likely to break or become dislodged.

Mini implants are marketed as a faster solution for replacing missing teeth because they can often be restored immediately after they have been placed. Though traditional implants require three to six months of healing time before they can support a permanent restoration, Dr. Stofer prefers them because they are more likely to provide long-term benefits.

Material

Dr. Stofer prefers titanium to zirconia because of its strength and affordability.  Titanium is a biocompatible metal that has microscopic pores. These pores allow your jaw bone tissue to form a stronger bond with your implants.  Zirconia implants were created as a way to eliminate the grayish color of titanium, which can eventually become apparent near the gumline. However, Dr. Stofer's practice can provide outstanding ongoing dental care and the best quality restorations to help you enjoy beautiful aesthetics in addition to the many important advantages of titanium implants.

Shape

Dental implants are available in a variety of shapes to emulate different kinds of tooth roots. Just as incisors, canines, premolars, and molars have different roots, there are specially shaped dental implants for each area of the jaw. Dr. Stofer will determine which implant shape is best for your needs.

Restoring Your Implants

While we exclusively place full-size titanium implants, we can provide restorations for all types of existing implants. If you already have zirconia or mini implants in place, Dr. Stofer will carefully examine them to ensure that they can provide adequate support before providing a restoration.

Once your implants are ready to support restorations, we will take impressions and X-rays of your jaw bone and implants. We will send this information to our dental laboratory, where your custom restorations will be crafted by skilled technicians to achieve an excellent fit and natural appearance.

Contact Us

If you are suffering with a compromised smile, a carefully planned restorative treatment incorporating dental implants can be one of the wisest investments you ever make. Dr. Stofer can help you experience a lifetime of comfort and confidence with dental implants. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.