What? You are thinking of dental implants but do not know how many types there are? That is strange! Anyway, do not feel alone! We promise to keep your smile intact by clearly explaining the four types of dental implants.
No doubt, such implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, and they look just like the real thing. As you are new to the world of dental care or simply curious, our blog post is specially for you. We will help you understand each type easily and simply.

Let’s start with the basics and discuss the four types, uses, and why they are a great choice for you!
The Basics: What Are Dental Implants?
A modern method of replacing missing teeth is dental implants. Dental implants are screws shaped like artificial roots which are surgically placed into your jawbone, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). It bonds naturally with your bone over time, becoming a very stable foundation. The artificial tooth is called a crown and is held securely in place in an artificial tooth with a connector or abutment.
If you are curious about them, the following are a few incredible facts that will surprise you:
- As far back as 600 A.D., the Mayans experimented with dental implants.
- In the U.S., about 3 million people have dental implants, and about 500,000 new implant procedures are performed each year.
- They are especially unique because dental implants not only replace teeth but also help the natural bone grow properly.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be a wonderful option to replace the tooth if you are missing teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or genetics. Being a strong candidate, though, means first meeting these criteria. Ideally, you will have good overall dental health, a healthy jawbone, and no active periodontal disease. Dental implants are also perfect for people who cannot or simply do not want to wear dentures.
Once you and your dentist determine that implants are a good choice for you, the next step is to understand the different types of implants available. Together, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and smile goals.
Types of Dental Implants
The following are the major types of dental implants;
1- Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. These implants are placed directly into your jawbone, making them a strong and reliable choice. They are usually made of titanium and shaped like small screws.
First, your dentist places the implant into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is securely in place, a crown (a replacement tooth) is attached to it.
Endosteal implants work best for people with healthy jawbones. If your bone is too thin or weak, your dentist may suggest a bone graft to strengthen it before placing the implant.
Why Choose Endosteal Implants?
- They feel natural and comfortable.
- They are highly durable and can last for years.
- They are perfect for replacing one tooth or several teeth.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are slightly different. Instead of going into the jawbone, these implants rest on top of it but under the gum tissue. The implant consists of a metal frame that fits over the jawbone.
As your gums heal, the frame becomes fixed in place. The posts attached to the frame stick out of the gums, and artificial teeth are then mounted onto the posts. Subperiosteal implants are a great option for people who do not have enough healthy jawbones for endosteal implants and do not want to undergo a bone graft.
Why Choose Subperiosteal Implants?
- They are less invasive for people with weaker jawbones.
- They are a quicker solution compared to endosteal implants.
- They provide a sturdy base for dentures or bridges.
3. All-on-4 Dental Implants
This type of all-on-4 dental implant is a good choice for adults who want a better alternative to dentures. This procedure involves placing four small titanium screws into your jawbone to act as the roots for your missing teeth.
The surgery is minor, and crowns are attached once the implants are secure. These crowns look and feel like natural teeth, giving you a functional and realistic smile. The name “All-on-4” comes from the fact that just four implants are used to support a full set of teeth for one jaw.
Why Choose All-on-4 Dental Implants?
There are many reasons why All-on-4 dental implants are a great option:
- First, they offer a more permanent and natural-looking solution than traditional dentures.
- The implants are securely placed in your jawbone, which helps them feel stable and comfortable.
- They also improve your ability to eat and speak confidently.
4. Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are much less common but still an important option. They are used when the jawbone is too weak for other types of implants. Instead of being placed in the jawbone, these implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygomatic bone).
Zygomatic implants provide excellent support since the cheekbone is denser and stronger than the jawbone. The procedure is more complex than others and requires a skilled dental professional.
Zygomatic implants are typically recommended for people with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
Why Choose Zygomatic Implants?
- They do not need bone grafting, even in severe cases.
- They offer a solution when other implants are not possible.
- They are reliable and provide a strong foundation for teeth.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer many amazing benefits, but they also have a few drawbacks to consider. Following are the main reasons that make dental implants beneficial for you:
- They allow you to chew and speak naturally, just like you would with real teeth.
- Implants are designed to look like your natural teeth, which can boost your self-confidence.
- They take the pressure off your remaining teeth by providing strong, independent support.
- Dental implants help preserve your jawbone, which can reduce the signs of aging over time.
- They prevent the loss of jaw height, keeping your facial structure intact.
- Cleaning and maintaining them is simple and similar to caring for natural teeth.
- They can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years with good care, making them a long-term solution.
Drawbacks of Dental Implants
While dental implants have many benefits, you should also know some of their downsides:
- They will not whiten like natural teeth, so you will need to keep up with their care.
- Getting implants needs a surgical procedure, which can feel invasive.
- The cost of implants is high, but their long-term benefits often make them worth it.
- If there is not enough natural bone in your jaw, a bone graft may be needed before the implants can be placed.
Dental implants are a fantastic option for many people, but weighing the pros and cons before deciding if they are the right choice for you is important.
Why Choose Gentle Teeth?
Many people find difficulty in finding a reliable clinic that meets all their dental demands. Are you one of them? If yes, we suggest you contact Gentle Teeth, where the wonderful services of all their dentists make it one of the most famous clinics on the market. Do not be late to get their services and make your smile attractive again.
Final Thoughts!
When you have full knowledge of the 4 types of dental implants, you will definitely make an informed decision. Any type of dental implant may have unique benefits tailored to different needs. Just relax and take your time to evaluate what is best for your situation, and do not hesitate to get advice from your dentist. It is because today’s decision is the future’s comfort.