What Are Endosteal Dental Implants?

Endosteal dental implants are a type of tooth restoration that is placed directly into the jawbone. Typically made of titanium, they are the most common type of implant used for replacing missing teeth. Endosteal implants mimic the shape of a natural tooth root, providing a strong foundation for a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, which is placed on top of the titanium implant.

There are various type of dental implant treatment options available using endosteal implants, including implant-supported dentures and single-tooth replacements. Call our Petoskey, MI dentist today at (231) 347-2188 to learn more about the implant treatments we provide at our dental practice.

Advantages of Endosteal Dental Implant Surgery

An endosteal implant procedure offer several benefits, including:

Long-lasting solution: With proper care, an endosteal implant can last for a lifetime.
Natural look and function: Endosteal implants are securely placed in the jawbone, ensuring that they do not slip or shift, and they provide a natural appearance.
High success rates: While there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, endosteal implants have a success rate of around 95%.
Jawbone preservation: By replacing a missing tooth, endosteal implants help maintain the health and structure of the jawbone, preventing deterioration.
Improved oral health: When a missing tooth is not replaced, surrounding teeth can shift, leading to poor oral health. An endosteal implant helps to prevent these issues, promoting good oral health for years to come.
Easy maintenance: There are no special care requirements for endosteal implants—simply treat them as you would your natural teeth.

How Do Endosteal Implants Work?

Endosteal implants replace a missing tooth root. During the procedure, a small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone by an oral surgeon. The implant is then left to heal and integrate with the bone, a natural process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, an artificial tooth is attached to the metal post. Although the surgical procedure is completed in one visit, the recovery process can take between three to six months.

Patients will achieve a beautiful, complete smile that functions just like their natural teeth.

Do You Qualify for an Endosteal Dental Implant?

Your eligibility for endosteal dental implants can be determined by your dentist or oral surgeon. Adequate jawbone density and good overall health are necessary to be a suitable candidate for endosteal implants. Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, as well as smoking or tobacco use, may affect candidacy due to the increased risk of implant failure.

Endosteal dental implants may not be suitable for patients with significant bone loss. In such cases, your dentist may recommend an alternative tooth replacement or a supplementary procedure, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift.

dentist showing patient a model of implants Ideal candidates for endosteal implants should meet the following criteria:

Excellent oral and general health
Healthy gums
Fully developed jawbone with sufficient bone structure
Ability to maintain excellent at-home oral hygiene
Visits the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings

Endosteal Implant Alternatives

While endosteal implants are the most common type, there are alternative options available for tooth replacement. A dental professional may recommend any of the following alternatives:

Zygomatic Implants: These implants are longer than endosteal implants and are anchored into the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. They are suitable for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
Subperiosteal Implants: These implants are placed on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. They are recommended for patients who have experienced significant bone loss and cannot support an endosteal implant.
Removable Dentures: This non-surgical option is for patients who have lost multiple or all of their teeth. Dentures can be removed for cleaning and maintenance.
Dental Bridges: A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching to the surrounding natural teeth on either side of the gap.

To determine the best tooth replacement option for your needs, your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your dental health and discuss your goals. If you’re in Petoskey, MI, contact Dr. Klym today to schedule an implant consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the procedure take for endosteal dental implants?

Are endosteal dental implants painful?

How long do endosteal dental implants last?

How long does the procedure take for endosteal dental implants?

Although the surgical placement of endosteal dental implants takes just one visit, the entire process may take several months to complete. The implant must fuse with the jawbone before the permanent restoration is placed.

The entire treatment usually takes between three and nine months. However, some patients may require additional surgery, such as bone augmentation, to provide a stable foundation for the implant.

Are endosteal dental implants painful?

The surgical procedure for placing endosteal dental implants typically involves minimal discomfort, as only a small incision is made. Dental sedation is usually used during the procedure. After the surgery, patients may experience some swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses.

How long do endosteal dental implants last?

With proper aftercare and oral hygiene, endosteal dental implants can last a lifetime. To extend their longevity, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, and avoid habits like smoking or teeth grinding.

Fill the Gaps in Your Smile by Scheduling an Appointment

Endosteal dental implants are a highly effective and durable solution for missing teeth. Not only do they look and function like natural teeth, but they also help preserve the jawbone and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.

To learn more about endosteal dental implants, contact our Petoskey, MI dentist, Dr. Klym, today at (231) 347-2188.