The 3 Types of Dental Implants

Learn what the 3 types of dental implants are, and which one could be right for you! 

If you’re ready to do something about your missing teeth, dental implants could be the way to go. Filling the gaps where you’re missing teeth is a good idea since it will help you regain correct chewing function, allow you to speak better, smile with confidence, prevent bone loss in your jaw, and keep your remaining natural teeth where they are. If you’re interested in learning whether or not dental implants are the right call for your situation, make sure to schedule a time to speak with your dentist. However, if you’re interested in learning a little more about the three kinds of dental implants that are available, keep reading because we’re going to talk about:

  • What endosteal and subperiosteal dental implants are
  • The 3 types of dental implants available
female dentist looking at a patient with a call to action on the right side saying “find an office”

What Are Subperiosteal and Endosteal Dental Implants?

understanding implants with diagram illustrating the crown and implant

Endosteal dental implants are the most commonly used implant, but they’re not the only one

Dental implants are a great way to get your healthy smile back if you’ve been dealing with missing teeth due to gum disease or decay. The most common kind of dental implant used today are known as endosteal dental implants. This type of implant requires a more invasive procedure than subperiosteal, since the implant will go into your bone. Endosteal implants are typically made of titanium, and your dentist will first install the implants into your bone and place temporary crowns on top while the implant and bone heal. You will then need to return for another visit to determine how well the implants have healed, and to place the abutment and permanent crown on top. This type of implant is good for people who:

  • Have adequate bone to accept the implants
  • Do not have a condition that would prevent the implants from healing properly in the jaw
  • Want a permanent solution to missing teeth
understanding implants diagram illustrating four step process

The other broad category of dental implants are known as subperiosteal, and they are not implanted into the bone, but rather sit on the jaw bone and in the gum tissue. The metal frame is designed with a series of posts that can hold the crown. Subperiosteal implants are not as widely used as endosteal implants because they are not as stable. However, you may be a candidate for this kind of implant if:

  • Do not have enough bone to support an endosteal implant
  • Want a more permanent solution to removable dentures

You and your dentist can discuss which type of implant is right for you. The majority of people who can get endosteal implants typically choose to go with that option due to the fact that they are so stable, are designed to function like your natural teeth, and are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss. 

If you like the idea of endosteal dental implants but are worried you don’t have enough bone mass to support them, don’t lose hope. There is a specific kind of dental implant that may be the right choice for you, which we’re going to discuss next. 

The 3 Types of Endosteal Dental Implants

dental implants chart showing you how they can be used

Get to know a little more about the types of dental implants available 

Everyone’s situation is unique, and whether you’re missing one tooth, or need to have multiple teeth replaced, there is an implant that can work for you. All of these types of dental implants will be placed into the bone, so only your dentist can determine if these are in fact a viable option for you. Endosteal dental implants have a very high success rate, and many patients wonder why they didn’t go through with the procedure sooner! If you think dental implants might be right for you, let’s take a closer look at the options you have available.  

Single tooth replacement

If you have only one tooth missing, or you have multiple teeth missing that are not next to each other, you might want to consider doing a single tooth dental replacement. Your dentist will confirm that there is sufficient bone in the area in order to insert the titanium implant. After this procedure, you’ll then need to return in order to attach the permanent abutment and crown.

Multiple teeth replacement

If you have two or more consecutive teeth missing, going with a multiple replacement (also known as a bridge) might be your best option. In this situation, your dentist will insert two (or more, depending on your needs) implants. After this has time to heal, your crowns will then be attached to the implants, providing a bridge for any crowns you need to fill the gap in between. The disadvantage of this procedure is that there are crowns that are not attached to implants, since they are located in between them. You may experience some bone loss with a bridge dental implant, as not all the teeth get an implant. The upside of this option is that you do not have to pay for each tooth to get an implant, which may save you money.

Full jaw replacement

If you are currently wearing dentures because you have multiple missing teeth, there may be a more permanent (and more comfortable) solution. If this is your situation, consider asking your dentist about an implant-retained denture. This type of dental implant is great for people who are missing all or most of their teeth, or are wearing removable dentures. Removable dentures have the tendency to move and slip around, and can cause difficulty with eating and speaking. One way to get rid of that problem is to use dental implants to insert and stabilize a full set of dentures. 

Depending on your needs, your dentist will insert four titanium implants into your bone, and once they’re healed, will place a full set of crowns on top of the abutments. This is a great way to get your smile and your confidence back if you’re dealing with multiple missing teeth!

If you think dental implants might be right for you, it’s time to speak with your dentist! Together you can create a customized plan to determine which type of dental implant is right for you, and start living your best life. To learn more about All-on-Four dental implants, please search for: "all on four Vaughan".

*General industry pricing only. See your local Aspen Dental for specific pricing.

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