What Are The Different Types Of Dental Implants?

If you’re struggling with missing teeth, then dental implants are one of the best ways to restore your smile.

But did you know there are several types of implants out there? Check out this short guide to discover your full dental implant options! 

Dental Implant Types

There are three main types of dental implants:

Endosteal implant 

The endosteal implant is most likely the one you’ve been researching since it’s the most common one. 

It’s made from a metal post, abutment, and dental crown. The post is surgically inserted into the jaw bone, which kickstarts a six-month healing period known as osseointegration. Once fully healed, the abutment and dental crown are added on top.

These types of dental implants are an optimal way to replace missing teeth, but they are not for everyone. You need to have healthy bones and gums, as well as meet several other criteria, to be cleared for the surgery. 

Subperiosteal implants

These implants are placed underneath the gum line but on top of the jawbone. It’s made from a metal frame, which offers support for the dental crown.

Subperiosteal implants may be a good solution for patients who have bone loss, but another pre-existing factor may prevent them from getting the more invasive traditional implant, such as an allergy to titanium.

Zygomatic implants 

Lastly, zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone to help patients with bone loss replace missing teeth. They are not very common, but they may be a good solution if you’re not a good candidate for the other two types of implants. 

Dental Implant Restoration

You can also divide the implant process based on the extent of restoration they can provide:

• Singular implants: If you only have one or two missing teeth, then singular implants are the best way to restore your smile.
• Implant-supported bridges: This is a good option if you have at least two adjacent missing teeth. During it, you will receive one or two implants, and then a prosthetic with multiple teeth is attached on top.
• Implant-supported dentures: If you have extensive dental loss, implant-supported bridges will involve having four implants placed throughout the jaw, then a full or partial denture that restores the smile. This is a more affordable alternative to having multiple singular implants while also having the other benefits of implants that traditional dentures don’t provide.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants? Find Out Now! 

Discover if dental implants are the right solution to restore your oral health by discussing your options with Leah R. Luck, DDS. During your consultation, you’ll get a thorough oral examination and learn about the best ways to replace your missing teeth.

To get started, request a visit to Luck Family Dental online. 

Have more questions about implants? Then feel free to call us at (803) 760-7860 for a short chat!