Types of Dental Implants: Find the Right Option for You

Dental implants play an important role in supporting your overall dental health by restoring both smile function and appearance. Implant dentistry involves replacing one or more missing teeth using strong artificial tooth roots attached to natural-looking crowns, bridges, or dentures.

They allow you to chew and speak comfortably, restore your confident smile, and offer a superior option to other restorations due to their long lifespan and ability to preserve the jawbone after tooth loss.

In this dental implants overview, you’ll learn what dental implants are, the different types of dental implants, what to expect during the treatment process, and how to choose the right implant provider for your needs.

What is a Dental Implant?

What are dental implants? Surgical dental implants are durable titanium posts that are gently inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of one or more missing teeth. A dental crown, bridge, or denture resembling natural teeth is then attached to the implant post to help restore chewing, speaking, and smiling.

Dental implants also support long-term dental health by helping preserve the jawbone and keeping nearby teeth from shifting. Next, this dental implants overview will cover the different types, including endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants.

Endosteal Implants

What is endosteal implant? Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant used for tooth replacement. During dental surgery, your dental professional will gently place a small, screw-like post directly into the jawbone. The post is typically made from biocompatible titanium material and serves as a durable support for a natural and custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Endosteal implants look and feel natural, improving important aspects of daily life, including chewing, speech, and confidence. They also do not require support from neighboring teeth and can help stimulate and preserve the jawbone. Ideal candidates are generally in good oral and overall health and have adequate jawbone volume.

Procedure Steps for Endosteal Implants

1. Consultation:
   Your dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether you are a candidate for endosteal implants. This evaluation may include reviewing your medical and dental history, examining your mouth, and taking X-rays or 3D scans to develop a personalized treatment plan. Your dentist can also discuss sedation options and other accommodations to help ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
2. Tooth removal (if needed): 
   If a tooth is still present at the planned implant site, your dentist may recommend extracting it to prepare the area for implant placement.
3. Bone grafting (if needed):
   Your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure where the implant will be placed if the jawbone is too thin or soft. A bone graft can help provide the necessary support for successful implant placement. A healing period, typically around 3 to 6 months, may be required after bone grafting before the dental implant can be placed.
4. Implant surgery:
   The treatment area will first be gently numbed. Your dentist will then make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone and place a titanium implant post. The gum tissue will be sutured closed over the implant.
5. Healing and bone fusion:
   Over the next 3 to 6 months, the bone typically fuses with the implant through a process known as osseointegration. This helps the implant function as a stable artificial tooth root.
6. Abutment placement:
   Once healing is complete, a small metal connector called an abutment is attached to the implant, extending just above the gumline.
7. Dental impressions/scans of your mouth:
   Impressions or digital scans of your mouth are taken to create a custom crown, bridge, or denture. The restoration will be designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
8. Attaching the final restoration:
   The final crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant abutment and checked for proper fit. Any necessary adjustments will be made to help ensure your comfort. Your dentist will provide home-care instructions to help prevent complications and support the long-term health of your restoration and smile.
9. Follow‑up visits:
   You will visit your dentist for check-ups to monitor implant healing and stability.

Benefits and Success Rates for Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are held in high regard for their numerous advantages and high success rates. However, they may not be ideal for every patient. A consultation with a dental professional is necessary to create a plan designed specifically for your oral health.

One of the main advantages of endosteal implants is their durability. Since they are inserted directly into the jawbone, these implants help preserve the jawbone, prevent teeth shifting, and help you chew and speak comfortably.

With consistent good lifestyle habits, proper oral hygiene practices at home, and routine dental check-ups, endosteal implants can potentially last a lifetime. In fact, a 10-year clinical study reported a 97% success rate for endosteal implants.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants provide oral health benefits similar to those of endosteal implants. However, they differ in design and placement: a metal framework is positioned on top of the jawbone, just beneath the gums, rather than being placed directly into the bone. This type of implant may be an option for individuals with significant jawbone loss who are not candidates for endosteal implants.

Before determining the most appropriate tooth-replacement option, your dental provider will evaluate factors such as your jawbone health, oral condition, and overall medical history to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Ideal Candidates for Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are commonly used as an alternative implant option when patients are not candidates for endosteal implants. This is often the case for patients with significant jawbone loss who are missing multiple missing teeth.

Benefits of Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants may be a great option for patients without enough jawbone for endosteal implants. They offer the benefit of potentially eliminating the need for bone grafting procedures, and overall treatment time is usually faster.

However, the procedure is more complex and requires additional special training. It is also usually more costly and associated with higher risks for complications like gum irritation, infection, or implant failure.

Comparison of Subperiosteal vs. Endosteal Implants

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are typically used to replace a full arch of upper teeth. Their implant posts are longer than those used for many other implant types and are anchored in the cheekbone, also known as the zygomatic bone.

These surgical procedures are typically recommended for individuals with weakened jawbone conditions that cannot support traditional implants. Since zygomatic implant placement is complex, the procedure requires a specially trained provider and advanced technology, such as 3D imaging.

Advantages of Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants can be a beneficial treatment alternative to traditional implants for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Their main advantages include high durability because they are anchored in the dense cheekbone, elimination of the need for bone grafting in many cases, shorter overall treatment times, and the possibility of receiving temporary teeth on the same day.

Patient Considerations

Before choosing zygomatic implants, patients should consult with a dental professional with advanced training in zygomatic implant placement to determine if it is an appropriate option for your smile. The provider will thoroughly evaluate your oral cavity, including the health of your upper jawbone, sinus cavity, and other oral structures. They may also use 3D imaging to support the diagnosis and treatment plan. Ask about the complexity of the procedure, estimated costs, recovery process, and potential surgical risks.

Comparing Different Types of Dental Implants

A good dental implant comparison of endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implant types should consider factors such as success rates, cost, and recovery time. Studies report similar success rates of approximately 96% for each dental implant type.

In terms of cost analysis, endosteal implants are often the least expensive when compared to other types of dental implants, while subperiosteal and zygomatic implants cost significantly more due to their procedure complexity. Regarding recovery times, average healing generally takes 3 to 6 months for endosteal and zygomatic implants, compared with a few weeks to 3 months for subperiosteal implants.

Cost Factors

Dental implant costs vary across implant types. In general, a single-tooth implant is usually less expensive than implants used to replace several missing teeth or a full arch, such as implant-supported bridges or dentures. On average, U.S. costs are $3,000–$7,000 per endosteal implant, $25,000–$50,000+ for a full upper arch zygomatic implant, and $3,000–$15,000 per arch for subperiosteal implants.

Ask for a written estimate of costs for your specific recommended treatment options and your available payment options before beginning treatment.

Long-term Durability

In general, dental implants are long-lasting and durable restorations. Research suggests the average lifespan of subperiosteal implants ranges between 10 to 15 years, whereas endosteal and zygomatic implants may potentially last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and lifestyle habits and regular dental visits.

However, the dental restorations attached to the dental implants, such as the crown, bridge, or denture, can wear down over time from regular chewing forces and may need repair or replacement, often after about 10 to 15 years. It’s important to note that the lifespan of dental implants and restorations can vary for each individual.

Procedure Steps and Recovery for Dental Implants

The dental implant procedure can vary based on the type of implant chosen. First, a consultation will be performed by your dental professional to plan treatment and determine the best option for your individual dental needs. Next, any additional procedures may be performed, if necessary, such as tooth extraction, sinus lift, or bone grafting procedures to prepare for implant placement.

During implant placement surgery, the area will be numbed, and the implant will be placed at the designated site, depending on the type of implant chosen. After-care patient care tips will be given to follow to support a healthy recovery. A period of healing will occur, which may take several weeks to months, which also can vary based on the type of implant placed. Once healing is complete, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to your implant to complete your smile.

Post-Procedure Care

After your dental implant procedure, you will be given tailored after-care instructions to follow by your dental professional.Recovery times and recommendations vary from person to person. You may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities, such as exercise, for a specified period after the procedure.

If medications are prescribed, take them only as directed, and attend all follow-up appointments. Your dental professional may also recommend gentle brushing, saltwater rinses, keeping your head elevated, eating soft foods, applying a cold compress to reduce swelling, and avoiding smoking, vaping, alcohol, and straws.

Mild swelling, discomfort, and bleeding are common during the first few days after implant placement. However, contact your dentist promptly if your symptoms do not improve or if you experience severe pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms.

Not sure which implant type is right for you?

Our team at Great Lakes Family Dental Group offers same-day consultations and advanced 3D imaging to help build your personalized treatment plan.

Cost Ranges and Financing Options

Dental implant costs vary widely based on factors such as the type of implant and final restoration (i.e. crown, bridge, or denture), number of teeth being replaced, materials used, your dentist’s geographical location and expertise, and if additional procedures are needed for implant placement (i.e. extractions, bone grafting, or sinus lifts).

The average U.S. costs for implants by type are $3,000 to $7,000 for single tooth implants, and $5,000–$15,000+ for an implant-supported bridge and “snap-in” removable overdentures per arch. While full-arch or full-mouth implants cost $15,000 – $70,000+.

To improve the affordability of dental care, many dental offices offer flexible payment and financing options. Ask your dental office about accepted insurance plans, third-party financing options such as CareCredit, dental membership plans, in-office discounts, and whether health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) funds can be used.

Insurance Coverage Insights

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies widely. Some plans do not include implants in coverage at all, while others may offer some coverage for implants or their attached final restorations like crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Gather your insurance information and speak with your insurance provider and dental office to learn more about your plan’s coverage details and estimated out-of-pocket treatment costs. Offices may also have financing available with third-party financing companies to divide large treatment costs into smaller monthly payments.

Choosing the Right Implant Provider

Implant provider selection should involve reviewing dentist qualifications and clinical implant experience, patient reviews, and the technology used for implant planning and placement. Look for a general dentist, periodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon with advanced training in implant dentistry.

You can also ask about what equipment and modern technology is used, such as 3D cone-beam imaging (CBCT). Patient reviews can be helpful in learning more about the office and patient’s overall experiences. However, contact the dental office so that they can answer all of your questions and help you determine if they are the right choice to meet your dental implant needs.

Non-Surgical Alternatives to Dental Implants

Fortunately, there are several oral health solutions for replacing missing teeth. If dental implants are not right for you, or you prefer to avoid surgery, your dentist can provide you with non-surgical options designed to help restore your smile. Popular dental implant alternatives that do not require surgery include dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures.

Dental bridges can fill a gap of one or more missing teeth with natural-looking artificial teeth by using the natural teeth beside it for support. Whereas partial dentures are removable appliances that can replace several missing teeth while fitting around your remaining natural teeth. Complete dentures are also removable appliances but replace all missing teeth in either the upper or lower arch.

These non-surgical alternatives can help prevent teeth shifting, maintain a natural facial profile, improve daily chewing and speech function, and enhance your overall smile appearance. Your dentist can help you choose the right option for you that fits your dental needs, lifestyle, and smile goals.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Options

Nonsurgical dental implant options may be excellent options for some patients. In general, dental bridges, partial dentures, and complete dentures typically have lower upfront costs and can be completed more quickly than dental implants. They may also benefit people who prefer to avoid dental surgery or who may not qualify for implants because of certain health conditions or insufficient jawbone support.

Each option can provide a natural appearance, improve chewing and speech, and help prevent neighboring teeth from shifting. However, these restorations function differently from dental implants and have some limitations. None directly preserve the jawbone, so bone loss may continue after tooth loss.

Dental bridges require reshaping the supporting teeth to accommodate crowns. Patients must also use specialized floss and cleaning techniques beneath the bridge to help prevent gum disease and other oral health problems. In contrast, dental implants can generally be flossed normally.

Patients with dentures must remove and clean them daily. If they do not fit properly, dentures may move during eating or speaking. Changes in the jawbone and gums over time can also affect their fit, often requiring adjustments or replacement to maintain comfort and function. Your dentist can help you weigh the benefits and limitations of each restorative option and choose the one best suited to your oral health.

Ready to restore your smile with dental implants?

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