FAQ: What Are the Most Common Types of Dental Implants? Blog

The need for dental implants can occur for a variety of reasons. If you need dental implants, you may be wondering which option is best for you. In many cases, your oral anatomy and hygiene may determine whether certain types of implants are a possibility. In some cases, choosing an implant has to do with personal preference. To determine which type of dental implant will be optimal for your needs, your dentist will need to perform a thorough examination and discuss each possibility with you. Below we will outline a few options to give you a better idea of what may be the best choice in your particular case. 

Endosteal Dental Implants

The most common type of dental implant is the endosteal implant. These are often used when someone has lost a single tooth that needs replacing, but can also be used if there are multiple in a row or scattered throughout the mouth.

Endosteal implants look like small screws inserted into the jawbone, and a replacement tooth or cap is set on top. These implants are typically made with biocompatible titanium and are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Because these implants are set into the bone, it takes several months and multiple stages of dental work, including fusion or osseointegration and abutment installation, before the final result is completed.

In order to be a candidate for endosteal implants, a patient must be in overall good health and oral health, as well as have good bone density and an intact jawbone. Patients who are unable to wear dentures or are simply tired of the challenges of daily denture maintenance are good candidates for endosteal implants. 

Subperiosteal Dental Implants

For patients who do not have the necessary jawbone capacity or who are not comfortable with the idea of fused implants and extensive preparatory work, subperiosteal dental implants are an alternative option. Instead of being anchored deep in the jawbone, these implants utilize a metal frame structure with attached posts implanted on top of your jaw but underneath the gums. After the gums heal around the frame, the teeth replacements are attached to the exposed posts.

Since this does not require the same jawbone strength and integrity as endosteal implants, it is a great option for those with less bone density or with a jawbone that is not fully matured. Bone fusion is not required, so the process for subperiosteal implants is slightly less intensive. However, it may still take weeks or months, depending on what prep work is needed and the length of the healing process.

Zygomatic Dental Implants

A relatively rare type of dental implant is the zygomatic implant, typically only used in the case of extreme bone loss or when traditional implants have not been effective. Instead of using the jawbone, these implants are anchored in the cheekbone. To achieve this, the implant is extra long and is able to span the distance from near the sinuses all the way to the tooth line. The cheekbone, also known as the zygoma, is very dense and allows these implants a secure, long-lasting fusion location.

Patients who may have been told they are not good candidates for standard implants could benefit from the use of zygomatic implants. Since this is a fairly uncommon type of implant, you want to be sure to consult with a dentist that is knowledgeable, skilled, and has extensive experience to be sure that your outcomes are positive.   

Find The Solution For You

Missing or severely damaged teeth almost always mean frustration, discomfort, and an ongoing desire to see the problem fixed. Not only can missing teeth make it difficult to eat and talk, they can be cause for embarrassment and hinder one's confidence. Dealing with dentures, bridges, and other constant hassles due to missing teeth can also be mentally draining. Don't let missing or damaged teeth hold you back any longer. Dental implants could be the most effective way to address your missing teeth and finally have a long-term solution that will give you a functional, beautiful smile. Choosing a dental implant is an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. It's important to take the time to explore all of the options available and consult with professionals who can provide you with the guidance and support you need. By working with our Detroit dental implant specialists at Lakeshore Dental, you can feel confident that you are making the right choice for your unique situation.