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What are the 3 Types of Dental Implants? – Finding the Best One for You

A radiant smile can effortlessly win hearts, making dental implants an essential choice when a tooth or teeth are lost. Although there are various tooth replacement options, dental implants are preferred by many due to their effectiveness. In fact, dentists often recommend implants because they are long-lasting and help achieve a perfect smile.

Dental implants offer transformative solutions that go beyond mere aesthetics.

Let’s find out how these innovative implants revolutionize oral health, providing lasting solutions for radiant smiles and renewed confidence.

Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal implants are the most prevalent and widely utilized type of dental implant. Surgically inserted directly into the jawbone, they offer a robust foundation for artificial teeth. Usually composed of titanium, this type of dental implant bonds with the jawbone through a process known as osseointegration.

Advantages

  • Their high success rate highlights their effectiveness, which is largely due to the osseointegration process, where the implant fuses directly with the jawbone. 
  • They are incredibly versatile and suitable for single-tooth replacements, bridges, and full-arch restorations, including dentures
  • Endosteal dental implants are known for their durability. They provide a long-lasting solution, ensuring stability and functionality for many years.

Ideal Candidates

  • People with good oral health, i.e., healthy gums and no active periodontal disease.
  • People with sufficient jawbone density to support the implant and ensure successful osseointegration.
  • Individuals in good general health, without any conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders.
  • Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are different from endosteal implants in their placement. Unlike endosteal implants, which are inserted into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants sit on or above the jawbone, under the gum tissue. A metal framework is placed on the jawbone, with posts extending through the gums to support the artificial teeth.

Advantages

  • Subperiosteal implants are great for individuals experiencing jawbone resorption as they sit on or above the jawbone, removing the need for a strong jawbone for anchorage. 
  • The placement procedure for this type of dental implant is typically faster than the osseointegration period required for endosteal implants, providing a quicker solution for patients needing timely dental restoration.

Ideal Candidates

  • Individuals with inadequate bone density or volume in the jaw who may not be suitable candidates for endosteal implants due to lack of sufficient bone structure.
  • Those seeking an alternative to traditional implants that may require less invasive procedures compared to bone grafting.
  • Candidates with fully developed and mature jawbones.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are a type of dental implant used to address cases of severe jawbone loss. Unlike traditional implants, which are placed directly into the jawbone, zygomatic implants are anchored into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), which is denser and less likely to have experienced significant resorption. 

Advantages

  • Zygomatic implants can support a fixed prosthesis (such as a full arch of teeth) right after placement, providing a quicker path to a complete and functional smile.
  • Anchoring into the dense zygomatic bone offers strong stability and durability for this type of dental implant, ensuring a long-lasting solution.
  • Zygomatic implants are an effective option for complex dental restorations, particularly for patients with previously failed implants or significant bone loss.

Ideal Candidates

  • Individuals with significant bone loss in the upper jaw, who may not have enough bone density to support traditional implants or require extensive bone grafting.
  • Patients who have experienced extensive resorption of the jawbone and are not suitable candidates for endosteal implants due to insufficient bone volume.
  • People with healthy gum tissue.

Choosing Between the 3 Types of Dental Implants

Bone Density & Structure

Endosteal Implants: Require sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.

Subperiosteal Implants: Suitable for patients with insufficient jawbone density, as they rest on or above the jawbone.

Zygomatic Implants: Ideal for cases of severe bone loss where other implants are not feasible, as they anchor into the zygomatic (cheek) bone.

Overall Oral Health

Healthy gums are essential for all types of dental implants to ensure proper healing and integration.

Bone Health

Adequate bone health is crucial for endosteal and subperiosteal implants, while zygomatic implants may be an option when bone health is compromised.

Medical Conditions

Conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases can impact healing and implant success.

Surgical Complexity & Recovery Time

Endosteal Implants: Involves a two-stage process with osseointegration and a longer recovery period.

Subperiosteal Implants: Generally involve a less invasive procedure but may still require healing time.

Zygomatic Implants: May involve a more complex procedure but can offer quicker restoration in some cases.

Cost & Insurance Coverage

Zygomatic implants can be more expensive due to their complexity, while subperiosteal and endosteal implants may have varying costs.

Conclusion

The various types of dental implants have revolutionized tooth restoration by providing tailored solutions for a wide range of needs.

Whether you choose the reliable stability of endosteal implants, the adaptability of subperiosteal implants, or the innovative approach of zygomatic implants, the aim is consistent: to restore your smile, enhance your confidence, and improve your quality of life.

Consult with your dental professional to identify the best implant option for your specific oral health needs.

Embrace Modern Dentistry at Precision Dental

Schedule an appointment with the dentists at Precision Dental to find out which type of dental implant is best for you. 

Contact us today.

Dental Bridge

Fixed, not removable

Costs an average of around $2,500+ depending on the type of material chosen and the number of teeth required- another factor is the type of bridge

Requires 2 or more appointments over the course of a few weeks

Usually requires replacement after about 10 to 15 years, may last about 10 with proper care and maintenance

Dental Implants

Fixed, not removable

Costs $5,000+ for a single implant and up to $60,000+ for full-mouth restoration. Hybrid options cost an average of $12,000 per arch

Requires multiple appointments over several months to a year or more

Implant screw should last a lifetime but the restoration may need to be replaced after about 20 years

FAQs

Endosteal implants are ideal for those with healthy bone structures, subperiosteal implants work for those with bone loss, and zygomatic implants are suitable for severe bone loss. A dental professional can help determine which is the best option based on your unique situation.

Zygomatic implants offer significant advantages for patients with severe jawbone loss, as they avoid the need for bone grafting by anchoring into the zygomatic bone. They can also often support a fixed prosthesis immediately after placement.

At Precision Dental, we are dedicated to providing quality dental care with comfort, modern treatment, and empathetic attitudes. Our experts provide a comprehensive spectrum of preventive care to advanced restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Using the latest technology, every patient receives individualized care in a warm and welcoming environment. Your smile is important to us at Precision Dental. Let’s see you today for a healthier, brighter smile.

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