The Different Types of Dental Implants

Three main categories of dental implants exist based on placement and structure. However, when you break them down further by technique and materials, 4 types of dental implants are commonly used today.

What Are The Four Types of Dental Implants and Their Differences?

When broken all the way down, four types of dental implants are available, and each has its specific use cases. Let’s review these four dental implant types, their differences, and their specific use cases.

1. Endosteal Implants (Most Common Type)

What they are:
These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and serve as artificial roots for a crown, bridge, or denture. They often resemble small screws.

Materials used:
Usually titanium or zirconia.

Best for:
Patients with good oral health and strong jawbone structure.

2. Subperiosteal Implants (Placed Above the Bone)

What they are:
Placed under the gum but above the jawbone, subperiosteal dental implants use a metal framework that rests on the bone with posts extending through the gums to support restorations.

Materials used:
Titanium alloy framework.

Best for:
Patients who can’t undergo bone grafting or have bone loss.

3. Zygomatic Implants (Anchored in Cheekbone)

What they are:
These implants are much longer and anchored into the zygomatic (cheek) bone instead of the upper jaw. They’re often used when the upper jaw has severe bone loss.

Materials used:
High-grade titanium.

Best for:
Patients with significant upper jawbone loss who aren’t candidates for traditional implants.

4. Mini Dental Implants (MDIs)

What they are:
Thinner, shorter implants often used for smaller restorations or to stabilize lower dentures.

Materials used:
Titanium.

Best for:
Patients with narrow bone ridges or those seeking denture stabilization without full surgery.

What Are the Types of Dental Implant Materials Dentists Use?

Choosing the right types of dental implants materials is just as important as selecting the implant style. Here are the two most common materials used:

Titanium Implants

• Biocompatible and widely accepted by the body
• Strong and durable
• Can be used in one- or two-stage surgeries
• Often come in screw or cylindrical shapes

Drawbacks:

• Some patients may experience titanium sensitivity, although it is rare.

Zirconia Implants

• Metal-free alternative for patients with allergies
• The white color matches tooth roots more naturally
• Highly biocompatible and resistant to corrosion

Drawbacks:

• Less flexible than titanium
• Limited long-term research compared to titanium implants

One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Implants: What’s the Difference?

Another way to categorize the types of dental implants is by structure:

One-Piece Implants

• The implant post and abutment are fused as a single unit
• Placed in one surgical procedure
• Reduced treatment time

Cons:

• Less flexibility in angling the crown
• Not ideal for all jaw positions

Two-Piece Implants

• The implant post and abutment are placed separately
• Offers more customization and control over the restoration angle

Cons:

• Requires two surgeries and a longer healing timeline

How Do You Choose the Right Type of Dental Implant?

The ideal implant for one person may not be the best choice for another. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate several factors and recommend the appropriate type of dental implant. The factors include:

• Jawbone density and volume
• Gum health
• Medical history (e.g., diabetes, smoking, osteoporosis)
• Number of teeth missing
• Budget and timeline

Our dental implant expert, Dr. Soumen Chatterjee, will use imaging tests, such as cone-beam CT scans, to assess the jaw and plan the best type of dental implant for your needs.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Dental Implants Aren’t a One-Size-Fits-All Solution

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to dental implants. Understanding the different types of dental implants, their materials, and structural differences allows you to arrive at the dentist more informed. Our expert implant dentist, Dr. Soumen Chatterjee, will help you choose based on your examination.

Whether you’re considering endosteal implants, mini implants, or exploring alternative options like zygomatic implants, the right solution depends on your specific health profile and dental goals. Speak with a qualified implant dentist who can recommend the best path based on a detailed exam and imaging.

Need help choosing the best type of dental implant? Contact Dr. Soumen Chatterjee’s helpful team and schedule an appointment to build a treatment plan that fits your needs.