If you’re looking into dental implant types, you’re already taking a great step toward restoring your smile. Dental implants are a reliable and natural-looking way to replace missing teeth.
In this post, we’ll explain the different types of dental implants, compare procedures, and help you choose the best dental implant solution for your needs.
Types of Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small medical device placed in the jaw to act as an artificial tooth root. Once secured, it provides a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Most implants are made from biocompatible materials like titanium or zirconia, which are safe, durable, and approved for dental use.
There are different kinds of dental implants, each designed to meet specific needs depending on bone health and treatment goals.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants (also called endosseous implants) are the most common type of dental implant. These implants are placed in the jawbone, where the bone naturally bonds with them over time, a process called osseointegration.
Because of their strength and stability, endosteal implants are often recommended for:
- Replacing a single missing tooth
- Supporting multiple teeth with a bridge
- Restoring a full arch of teeth with advanced techniques like All-On-4
If you’re a candidate for implants, there’s a good chance your dentist will suggest this option.
Subperiosteal Dental Implant
Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone but underneath the gums, instead of being inserted into the bone. This type is less common today but may be considered when:
- A patient does not have enough jawbone to support an endosteal implant
- Bone grafting or bone grafting procedures are not an option
In the past, subperiosteal implants were common for patients with major bone loss, but today, dentists usually choose endosteal implants thanks to modern bone regeneration techniques.
Zygomatic Implants (Specialized Endosteal Implant)
Zygomatic implants are a highly specialized type of implant used only in complex cases. Instead of being anchored in the jawbone, they are secured into the zygoma (cheekbone), which provides a strong alternative foundation.
This method is typically reserved for patients with extreme bone loss in the upper jaw, where conventional implants would not be stable. Because of their complexity, zygomatic implants require a skilled specialist and are not as widely available as other dental implant types.
Different Types of Dental Implant Procedure
Beyond the anatomical classification, dental implants also differ by procedure, loading protocol, and whether they are fixed or removable. Here’s a breakdown:
All-On-4 Implants
All-On-4 is a full-arch restoration technique in which a complete set of upper or lower teeth is supported by only four implants. Two implants are placed more vertically in the front, and two are angled toward the back, allowing for optimal distribution and minimizing need for bone grafts in many cases.
This method can often support a temporary prosthesis on the same day or soon after surgery. This helps recovery happen faster.
3-On-6 Implants
Less common than All-On-4, a “3-on-6” approach uses three implants to support a full arch, sometimes with six points of anchorage (e.g. bridging). The idea is to reduce the number of implants needed while still providing sufficient support. Whether this is viable depends heavily on bone quality and patient-specific anatomy.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini implants are narrower and smaller in diameter than standard implants (often < 3 mm). Dentists often use them in tight spaces (like the lower front jaw) or to stabilize loose dentures. Because of their smaller size, they may not bear the load of full crowns in all cases, but they can be a less invasive option.
Fixed or Removable Implants
Fixed implants are permanently attached (e.g. crowns, bridges) and cannot be removed by the patient.- Removable implant-retained prostheses (like overdentures) “snap” onto implants but can be removed by the patient for cleaning.
Fixed implants are permanently attached (e.g. crowns, bridges) and cannot be removed by the patient.Choosing fixed vs removable depends on ease of maintenance, hygiene, cost, and patient preference.
Implant-Supported Dentures
An implant-supported denture uses implants (often 2–6 or more) to anchor a full or partial denture. Unlike traditional dentures, these are more stable, improve chewing function, and reduce bone resorption over time. You can wear the denture as either fixed or removable.
Teeth-In-A-Day (Immediate Load Implants)
“Teeth-in-a-day” (or “immediate load”) refers to implants that have a crown or prosthesis attached the same day as the implant surgery (or within 24 hours). Not all patients qualify, success depends on bone quality, implant stability at placement, and surgical technique.
Immediate loading helps reduce appointments and time without teeth, but it requires careful planning and case selection.
How to Choose the Right Type of Dental Implants for You?
Selecting the right dental implant type depends on many factors. Here are key considerations:
1. Bone quality and quantity: If you have enough bone in your jaw, standard endosteal implants or All-On-4 may be an option. In cases of severe bone loss, zygomatic implants or bone grafting might be needed.
2. Anatomy and location: The shape of your jaw, sinus proximity, and spatial constraints may influence whether mini implants or angled placements are necessary.
3. Desired fixed vs removable solution: Some patients prefer fixed, non-removable teeth, while others prefer removable options for hygiene or cost reasons.
4. Timeline and convenience: If you want to reduce time without teeth, immediate load (Teeth-in-a-Day) may be appealing, but not always feasible.
5. Budget and cost-effectiveness: More complex procedures (zygomatic, bone grafting, advanced surgical planning) generally cost more. Insurance coverage may vary.
6. Health and systemic factors: Your overall health, healing capacity, smoking status, and chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes) influence success rates.
A well-qualified implant dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate these factors using imaging (e.g. CBCT scans), dental history, and clinical exam to recommend the optimal implant type.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of dental implant for a single missing tooth?
Dentists usually consider a standard endosteal implant with a crown the gold standard for replacing a single missing tooth. It preserves adjacent teeth and provides strong, durable results if bone is adequate.
Which type of dental implant is best for people with bone loss?
In cases of bone loss, options include mini implants (in less load-bearing sites), zygomatic implants (for the upper jaw), or combining implants with bone grafting or sinus lifts. Your dentist may recommend grafting to make a more conventional implant possible.
Can I switch from removable dentures to fixed implants later?
Yes, many patients transition from removable (implant-retained overdentures) to fixed implant-supported bridges when bone and implant positions permit. The possibility depends on available implants, bone support, and prosthetic design.
Which types of dental implants heal the fastest?
Immediate load (Teeth-in-a-Day) implants restore function faster but need strong initial stability and good bone quality. Standard (delayed load) implants use a slower, more cautious approach that supports safer healing when bone conditions aren’t ideal.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Many dental insurance plans in the U.S. offer limited or no coverage for implants, as they’re often seen as elective. Check with your insurer, and ask your dentist for a cost breakdown and financing options. Always verify implant coverage in your specific policy.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of dental implants, from anatomical (endosteal, subperiosteal, zygomatic) to procedural variations (All-On-4, Mini Implants, Teeth-in-a-Day), is essential when planning your dental restoration journey.
If you are thinking about implants, talk to a qualified dentist. Dr. Cheema at Morada Dental & Orthodontics can help. He will assess your needs and suggest the best option for you.
Schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists to learn which type of dental implant is right for you.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified dental professional for personalized guidance.
Sources:
1. American Dental Association: MouthHealthy – Dental Implants Overview
2. U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Dental Implants – What You Should Know
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Oral Health – General Resources
4. American Academy of Implant Dentistry: Dental Implant Basics