Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone below the gums. These artificial roots provide a secure base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. There are two types of dental implants:
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are surgically positioned in the jawbone. They integrate with the bone and become a part of it. A second surgery is performed to attach the abutment to the implant. The abutment connects the implant to a crown or bridge.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants connect a metal frame to the jawbone below the gum tissue. Over time, the frame becomes permanently secured to the jawbone. Titanium posts are attached to the metal frame and protrude through the gums. They are then connected to a crown or bridge.