What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

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The intent to replace a lost tooth is a tough task on its own, and choosing between different dental implant systems is no mean feat. Our experienced team of professionals has compiled a comprehensive overview of different kinds of dental implants, with placement technique, material, and procedure type in mind. Discover various dental implant options to be aware of their peculiarities when your dentist recommends you one!
Overview of Dental Implants
Dental implants are medical systems that include a titanium screw-like body and abutment, which reliably support artificial teeth. Wherever you aim to get dental crowns, bridges, or dentures to restore your ability to chew, you need a sturdy, long-term base. Dental implant surgery implies positioning the titanium post in the jawbone to substitute the original tooth’s root. After the healing period of 4 to 9 months, you can eat, speak, and smile confidently. The implant prevents hasty bone loss, defective speech, and changes in chewing functionality.
Dental Implants Classification by Placement Technique
Considering various types of dental implants, we have to keep in mind different classifications. When it comes to placement technique, dentists distinguish endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants. This might sound like medical gibberish, so let’s find out the meaning behind it!
Endosteal Implants (Most Common)
Endosteal implants are the most common among dental implants types. The procedure involves inserting a biocompatible titanium implant into the jawbone and usually doesn’t exceed one hour. The treated site heals for several weeks, and afterward, a dentist attaches the prosthetic tooth. Endosteal implants will suit you if you are blessed with good oral health and a strong jawbone.
Pros | Cons |
Reduced risk of implant failure. | On the expensive side. |
Can be tailored to replace one or multiple teeth. | 2. Need more time to heal. |
An enhanced appearance. |
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants act splendidly when a patient lacks a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone. An oral surgeon positions them on or above the jawbone and beneath the gum line. The construction comprises a custom-made metal frame and the implant body on the frame top, eliminating the need for drilling or cutting. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making subperiosteal implants a great alternative to more invasive dental surgery.
Pros | Cons |
More gentle approach. | The implant can become loose over time. |
Suit patients with weaker jawbones. | 2. Other types of teeth implants can be more durable. |
Reasonable price. | 3. Longer recovery period. |
Zygomatic Implants (for Severe Bone Loss)
Zygomatic implants are indispensable for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Their advanced design features a longer implant body anchored to the cheekbone. If you lack several teeth in the upper jaw, zygomatic implants can be your go-to option.
Pros | Cons |
Great for patients with significant jawbone loss. | Quite costly. |
Stable and durable support for dental crowns and dentures. | 2. Need more time for full recovery. |
Fit patients who may not tolerate other types of implants for teeth. |
Classification by Procedure Type
Types of dental implants systems also differ by procedure kind, ranging from single-tooth implants and implant-supported bridges to full-arch and mini implants.
Single-Tooth Implants
Oral surgeons recommend single-tooth implants if you are missing one tooth. After successful osseointegration, these implants help to keep the bone intact. The upper part of an artificial tooth (a crown) is fully customized to match your other teeth, so these dental implants have a natural look.
Pros | Cons |
Look and function like natural teeth. | As with any type of surgery, the procedure carries out certain risks. |
Unlike dental bridges, a doctor doesn’t have to ground down the neighboring teeth. | |
Contribute to jawbone preservation. | |
More aesthetic and easier to take care of than a bridge. |
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges restore tooth rows for patients with at least two missing teeth. Each side of the bridge is supported by a titanium implant. Unlike conventional bridges, it protects the jawbone from deterioration. The size of the bridge is based on the number of implants.
Pros | Cons |
Natural teeth aren’t filed down for support on each side of the bridge. | A patient has to undergo implant surgery. |
Implants grant the construction stability. | |
Enable the patient to eat, speak, and smile trouble-free. |
Full-Arch Implants (All-on-4 / All-on-6)
Full-arch implants are a permanent solution used to replace an entire tooth row. All-on-4 option includes four implants positioned in the jawbone that secure the bridge in place, while all-on-6 implants support a full arch of teeth with six implants. Such types of tooth implants are more convenient than traditional dentures since they don’t require daily maintenance. This is a good alternative for those missing multiple teeth and having healthy gum tissue and a strong jawbone. Reasonably, you’ll have to spend more on all-on-6 implants than all-on-4 implants.
Pros | Cons |
Designed to last a lifetime. | More expensive than traditional dentures. |
Require less maintenance than traditional dentures. | 2. Implants need 3–9 months to heal. |
Aesthetical look and natural feel. | |
Fit securely. |
Mini Implants
Mini dental implants are a less invasive implant option. Though smaller than conventional implants, they perfectly cope with lost teeth replacement and do not concede in terms of material quality. A dentist may recommend this alternative for patients with limited jawbone density.
Pros | Cons |
Less invasive surgical placement. | 1. Slightly concede in success rate to traditional implants. |
Faster recovery time. | 2. May not work for severe jawbone loss. |
Can be positioned in a single dental visit. | 3. Conventional implants offer a more robust foundation. |
No need for extensive jawbone preparation. | |
Typically more affordable than conventional implants. |
Material-Based Types of Dental Implants
Modern implants are manufactured of long-lasting biocompatible materials, each having a unique set of features and advantages. We’ll briefly describe titanium and zirconia implants here. For a more comprehensive evaluation of their pros and cons, read another article on our blog entitled “Zirconia vs. Titanium Dental Implants: Which Is Better?”
Titanium Implants
Titanium alloy has been used for dental implant production since the 1960s. It’s currently the most prevalent implant type famous for its practicality and durable results. These implants are designed to last and have a high success rate of around 97% 5 years following dental surgery.
Pros | Cons |
Provide a robust foundation for a dental crown. | May not conform to the needs of patients with an allergy to metal. |
Corrosion and wear resistance. | |
Rare implant fractures. | |
Can last a lifetime with proper care and regular teeth cleanings. |
Zirconia Implants
Zirconia implants are indispensable if you want to restore missing teeth and have a metal allergy. Their design features a white one-piece construction that enhances aesthetic appearance and eases surgical procedures. They are appreciated in oral implantology due to proven biocompatibility, low plaque affinity, and lower risk of peri-implantitis.
Pros | Cons |
Aesthetic look due to white color and translucent nature. | More fragile than titanium implants. |
Antibacterial adhesion properties. | 2. More costly than titanium implants. |
Long-lasting. | 3. More studies are needed to ensure zirconia matches titanium in terms of durability and properties. |
Corrosion and wear resistance. |
Which Type Is Right for You?
When deciding on the fitting type of dental implant for you, consider your oral health and individual needs. The following factors can impact your choice:
- Dentist’s expertise
Encountering an experienced dental implant specialist is half of success. A qualified dentist is acknowledged for the latest technologies in oral implantology and can timely evaluate the risks to perform the procedure correctly.
- Implant type
The type of implant depends on the jawbone quality and number, size, and shape of missing teeth. It is tricky to choose one without professional help and an expert examination of your oral cavity. Our skilled dentists in Forest Hills, New York can provide essential guidance to find the perfect type of implant for your unique case.
- Price
The cost of dental implants varies based on their type and the price list of a concrete dental office. Ensure the costs in the clinic are transparent from the very beginning so as not to cry over spilled milk later. Do your research and find out whether your insurance covers some of the cost to get the best price.
As you can see, making a reasonable decision on the proper dental implant type requires substantial knowledge of industry advancements, vast professional expertise, and a thorough assessment of your dental needs. Our qualified doctors will gladly support you on the way to a healthy, gap-free smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants Types
What is the most commonly used type of dental implant?
Endosteal implants are most widespread in oral implantology. This implant type provides a robust and permanent foundation to replace the missing teeth.
Are mini implants as durable as traditional implants?
Though mini implants are a perfect option for patients with jawbone loss, they are considered less durable than traditional implants. The reason is that teeth are prone to heavy chewing forces, especially the molars.
Can I switch from dentures to implants?
Yes. If you find dentures are limiting your lifestyle, you can switch to dental implants. The latter option wins in terms of comfort, stability, ease of maintenance, and years of service.
Which type is best for full-mouth restoration?
In case you want to restore the entire tooth row, a dentist can recommend full-mouth dental implants. The good news is you don’t need an implant for each missing tooth — there are more sparing solutions like all-on-4 dental implants or all-on-6 dental implants. These alternatives reduce the number of surgical procedures and save you money.
Additional Resources
- Hesitating between dentures or implants? Consider which factors can make dentures more beneficial for your overall health!
Examine this 3-year randomized controlled clinical trial to discover survival rates of mini-implants.