1. What is an Implant?
An implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium or zirconia, that is implanted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. This post acts as a "tooth root" to support the porcelain crown above, providing chewing ability and aesthetics like a real tooth. A complete implant consists of 3 parts:
- Main pillar: Inserted into the jaw bone.
- Abutment: Connects the abutment to the crown.
- Porcelain crown: The outer part of the false tooth.
2. Why Are There So Many Types of Implants?
Different types of implants are available to suit each patient's health condition and needs:
- Weak jawbone: People with bone loss need long or special implants.
- Missing tooth position: Front teeth need high aesthetics, molars need durability.
- Financial capacity: Each type of pillar has a different price.
3. Common Types of Implants
3.1. Standard Implant
- Features: Medium size, suitable for most occasions.
- Advantages: Reasonable cost, easy to find in clinics.
- Disadvantages: Not suitable for very thin bones.
3.2. Mini Implant
- Features: Small diameter (under 3mm), for narrow bones.
- Advantages: No bone grafting required, fast treatment time.
- Disadvantages: Chewing force is weaker than standard implants.
3.3. Zygoma Pillar (Cheek Pillar)
- Features: Long implant in the cheekbone, for people with severe upper jaw bone loss.
- Advantages: No bone grafting required, quick recovery.
- Disadvantages: High cost, requires experienced doctors.
3.4. All-on-4/All-on-6 Pillar
- Features: Use 4-6 pillars to support the entire denture.
- Advantages: Suitable for people with complete jaw loss, short treatment time.
- Disadvantages: High complexity, expensive price.
4. Materials for Manufacturing Implant Pillars
4.1. Titanium
- Advantages: Durable, good compatibility with the body, reasonable price.
- Disadvantages: Metal edges may be visible if gums are thin.
4.2. Zirconia
- Advantages: Natural white color, generally hypoallergenic.
- Disadvantages: Price is higher than titanium, lower hardness.
5. How to Choose the Right Type of Pillar
- Strong jawbone: Choose standard or zirconia implants.
- Thin bone: Mini-pillar or bone graft required.
- Missing multiple teeth: All-on-4/All-on-6.
- Limited budget: Standard Titanium.
Note: Always consult your doctor for detailed advice.
6. Care After Implant Placement
- Oral hygiene: Brush teeth gently, use dental floss.
- Diet: Avoid hard, chewy foods for the first 2–4 weeks.
- Re-examination: Every 6 months to check stability.
- Do not smoke: Smoking slows wound healing.
7. Cost of Different Types of Implants
- Titanium implant: 15-25 million VND/embed.
- Zirconia implant: 25-40 million VND/embed.
- All-on-4 implant: 120–250 million VND/jaw.
- Zygoma implant: 200–400 million VND/jaw.
Note: The above prices are only approximate and may vary depending on the dental facility and patient's condition.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is implant placement painful?
No pain because the doctor will anesthetize. After surgery, you will only feel slight pain for a few days.
2. How long does the implant last?
About 20 years if well cared for.
3. Can children have implants?
No. Only done when the jawbone stops growing (from 18 years old).
4. Do I need to abstain from anything after implant placement?
Avoid vigorous chewing, drinking alcohol, and smoking for 1–2 weeks.
5. Why choose zirconia implants?
Because of its high aesthetics, it is suitable for front teeth.
9. Conclusion
Choosing the right type of implant depends on your jawbone condition, the location of the missing tooth, and your budget. Whichever type you choose, visit a reputable dental clinic for advice and safe treatment. Don’t forget to take good care of your teeth to prolong the life of the implant!
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