Understanding the Different Types of Dental Implants and How They Work

Missing teeth can do more than affect your smile—they can make everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even laughing feel uncomfortable. Here in San Diego, where an active lifestyle and social gatherings are part of daily life, you shouldn’t have to worry about missing teeth holding you back. At Dent Aid Dentistry, we specialize in dental implants, a long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. But not all implants are the same. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or an entire arch, understanding your options is the first step toward restoring your smile.

Dental Crown Implant

If you’re missing a single tooth, a dental crown implant is often the best option. This type of implant consists of three parts:

• A titanium post that is placed in your jawbone to act as an artificial root.

• An abutment, which connects the implant to the crown.

• A custom-crafted crown designed to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and color.

Over time, the titanium post fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, making it a strong, permanent foundation.

Dental Bridge Implant

If you’re missing two or more teeth in a row, a dental bridge implant might be the right solution. Instead of replacing each tooth with an individual implant, this approach uses two implants to support a bridge of prosthetic teeth.

How it works:

• Two implant posts are placed on either side of the gap.

• A custom bridge (several connected crowns) is attached, filling in the missing teeth.

This option is a great alternative to traditional bridges, which rely on adjacent teeth for support. With an implant-supported bridge, your healthy teeth remain untouched, and the implants provide a more stable, long-term solution.

Implant Dentures

For those missing most or all of their teeth, implant dentures offer a game-changing solution. Traditional dentures can slip and shift, making it difficult to eat, speak, or even laugh without concern. Implant-supported dentures solve this problem by securing the denture to a series of dental implants.

Which Dental Implant Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right dental implant depends on your dental needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you need to replace one tooth or an entire set, the goal is the same: restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Dent Aid Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to dental implants. We’ll evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and create a customized treatment plan that fits your needs.

If you’re ready to explore dental implants, schedule a consultation with Dent Aid Dentistry to find the best solution to bring back your confidence. Visit our office in San Diego, California, or call (858) 215-1041 to book an appointment today.