Types Of Dental Implants
Posted on 6/1/2026 by Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery |
 Losing a tooth can feel like a big deal, and it can affect how you eat, speak, and even how you feel about your smile. Luckily, there are some great ways to replace missing teeth, and dental implants are one of the most popular and long-lasting options. But did you know that not all dental implants are the same? Let's explore the different kinds of dental implants so you can understand your choices.
What is a Dental Implant?
Before we dive into the types, let's quickly review what a dental implant actually is. Think of it as an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium. This small post is surgically placed into your jawbone. Over time, the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration, making it a very stable and secure foundation for a replacement tooth. Once the implant is firmly in place, a connector piece, called an abutment, is attached. Finally, a crown (the part that looks like a tooth) is attached to the abutment.
Endosteal Implants: The Most Common Type
Endosteal implants are the most frequently used type of dental implant. The word "endosteal" means "within the bone". These implants are shaped like small screws, cylinders, or blades, and they are placed directly into the jawbone.
Endosteal implants are a great choice for people with healthy jawbones that are strong enough to support the implant. There are several different types of endosteal implants, including:
| • |
Screw-Shaped Implants: These are the most common type of endosteal implant. They are inserted into a drilled hole in the jawbone. |
| • |
Cylindrical Implants: These implants are smooth and cylindrical, and they are often press-fit into the jawbone. |
| • |
Blade Implants: Blade implants are flat and wide, and they are used in cases where the jawbone is narrow. |
Subperiosteal Implants: An Alternative Approach
Subperiosteal implants are placed on the jawbone, but under the gum tissue, rather than in the bone. The word "subperiosteal" means "beneath the periosteum," which is the membrane that covers the bone. These implants consist of a metal framework that rests on the jawbone.
Subperiosteal implants are typically used when a patient doesn't have enough jawbone to support endosteal implants, and they are not able or willing to undergo a bone grafting procedure to build up the bone. While not as frequently used as endosteal implants these days, they can be a viable option in certain situations.
Zygomatic Implants: A Specialized Solution
Zygomatic implants are a more complex type of implant that anchors to the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) instead of the jawbone. These are longer than traditional implants and are used when there is severe bone loss in the upper jaw, making it impossible to use endosteal implants even with bone grafting.
Zygomatic implants are a specialized procedure that requires a skilled and experienced oral surgeon.
Immediate Load Implants: Teeth in a Day?
Also sometimes called same-day implants, immediate load implants allow for the placement of a temporary tooth or crown on the same day the implant is placed. This can be a great option for people who want to avoid a period of wearing a temporary denture or having a gap in their smile.
However, not everyone is a good candidate for immediate load implants. It requires sufficient bone density and stability to support the immediate placement of a crown. Your oral surgeon will need to carefully evaluate your situation to determine if this is the right option for you.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right type of dental implant depends on many factors, including the location of the missing tooth, the amount and quality of your jawbone, and your overall health. Your oral surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays and/or CT scans, to assess your situation and recommend the best course of action for you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your concerns with your surgeon to make an informed decision about your dental health.
|
|
