Essential Considerations When Choosing a Dental Implant System

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Dental implants are some of the most common and effective options for missing teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent and can last a patient their entire lifetime with proper care. Other advantages of dental implants that make them popular include restored bite force, convenience, unaffected diet, facial structure retention, and improved self-esteem. Notably, dental implant systems vary thanks to the various brands and options available. Fortunately, a qualified dentist can help you choose the right implant system for your dental needs. This article highlights essential considerations when choosing a dental implant system.

Abutment Options -- Perhaps the most critical consideration that dentists make when choosing dental implant systems for patients is abutment options. Abutments refer to the metal section that acts as the crown's base and serves as a connector. Notably, most implant systems have various stock and abutment options. Therefore, the implant systems dentists select must be compatible with the preferred abutment options. For instance, some abutments are compatible with almost all dental implant types, making them the go-to choice regarding restorability. However, other abutments are only available for custom implant systems, making restorations challenging. For example, implant-level non-engaging abutments are best for screw-retained splintered restorations. The reason is that the abutment allows dentists to screw an implant system and effectively anchor the crown.

Implant System Longevity -- Dentists understand that dental implants are developed by independent companies that conduct extensive research on material science to produce the best orthodontic devices. Therefore, patients must carefully consider the longevity or stability of dental implant companies before choosing a system. Reputable and experienced companies are the best to work with because they guarantee durability. Consequently, it makes it easier to get replacement screws or new abutments when it is time for a crown replacement. The best part is that experienced dentists have worked with multiple dental implant companies and know which firms will be around for a long time.

Bio-Compatibility -- Traditionally, the bio-compatibility of dental implant systems focused on the material's compatibility with biological tissue. However, the modern definition of bio-compatibility, especially in dentistry, includes an implant's ability to perform a specific function. Notably, your teeth perform different functions based on their position and shape. For instance, incisors are designed to bite foods, while canines serve to rip and tear food. Therefore, the implant system that replaces a missing canine tooth must be strong enough to restore the ripping and tearing function. Similarly, the multiple roots on molars allow them to chew and grind food effectively. As a result, the dental implants to replace molars must be wide enough to provide the crown with the necessary stability to perform the two core functions.


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