Nancy Lee
Medical Content Writer
Dr. Dominguez
Medical Reviewer
Have you ever wondered what is keeping those perfect smiles in place?
Whether you’re thinking about getting one, or just curious about what’s in your dentist’s toolbox, this guide will give you information about all things dental implant.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before we get into the types, let us set our basics straight. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed replacement teeth. In other words, they are as close as you can get to healthy natural teeth.
Now let us break down the different types of dental implants. We will categorize them by design, attachment method, material and number of teeth replaced.
The Best Type of Dental Implant
You may be asking yourself “what is the best type of dental implant?”
Here’s the scoop–there isn’t one answer for everyone. The “best” implant depends on factors like jaw bone density, overall oral health and specific needs but generally speaking endosteal implants (we’ll get there) are considered to be most patients’ gold standard.
Types of Dental Implants Based on Number of Teeth Replaced
1. Single Tooth Implant
The solo artist of the dental implant world.
- Replaces a single missing tooth
- Consists of one implant, an abutment, and a crown
Pros:
- Preserves adjacent teeth
- Looks and functions like a natural tooth
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw
Cons:
- More expensive than a bridge for a single tooth
- Requires surgery
2. All-on-4 Implants
The minimalist’s approach to full arch replacement.
- Uses only four implants to support a full arch of teeth
- Two straight anterior implants and two tilted posterior implants
- Can often be done in one day (“Teeth in a Day”)
Pros:
- Fewer implants needed
- Often avoids the need for bone grafting
- Immediate function with temporary teeth
Cons:
- Not suitable for all patients
- Requires sufficient bone in specific areas
- May have a higher risk of implant failure compared to more implants
3. All-on-6 Implants
The overachiever of the All-on-X family.
- Uses six implants to support a full arch of teeth
- Provides more support than All-on-4
- Can distribute the bite force more evenly
Pros:
- More stable than All-on-4
- Can be a good option for patients with less ideal bone quality
- May last longer due to better force distribution
Cons:
- More expensive than All-on-4
- May require bone grafting in some cases
- Longer surgery time
4. Full Mouth Dental Implants
The whole enchilada of tooth replacement.
- Replaces all teeth in both upper and lower jaws
- Can involve 8 to 10 implants per arch
- Provides the most natural feel and function
Pros:
- Most comprehensive solution for total tooth loss
- Excellent stability and chewing function
- Can significantly improve quality of life
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Requires extensive surgery
- Longer treatment time
Types of Dental Implants Based on Design
1. Endosteal Implants
a little screw going directly into your jawbone – that’s an endosteal implant!
- The most common type (about 95% of all dental implants)
- Shaped like small screws
- Placed directly in the jawbone
- Can hold one or more false teeth
Pros:
- Stable and long-lasting
- Look and feel natural
- Suitable for most patients
Cons:
- Need enough jawbone to support them
- Long healing time required.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
a metal frame sitting on top of your jawbone but underneath your gum tissue–that’s a subperiosteal implant.
It’s placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone.
Used when patients don’t have enough healthy bone for endosteal implants.
Pros:
- Good option for those with insufficient height in their bones
- Quicker procedure time.
Cons:
- Not as stable as an endosteal implant
- May not last as long.
3. Zygomatic Implants
These are the long-distance runners of dental implants.
Longest of all implant types
Anchored in cheekbone (zygoma) instead of jawbone
Used when there is significant upper jaw bone loss.
Pros:
- An alternative to bone grafting
- Suitable for severe maxillary atrophy cases.
Cons:
- Complicated surgery process involved
- Requires specialized skill to place
4. Intramucosal Dental Implants
These are like the stick-on nails of the dental world.
- Inserted within the gum tissue
- Used primarily to stabilize removable dentures
- Not as common as other types
Pros:
- Minimally invasive
- Can improve denture stability
Cons:
- Not suitable for fixed teeth replacement
- Less durable than other implant types
Types of Dental Implants Based on Attachment Method
1. Osseointegration
This is the dental equivalent of “becoming one with nature.”
- Implant fuses directly with the jawbone
- Most common attachment method
- Creates a stable, long-lasting foundation for artificial teeth
Pros:
- Extremely stable
- Mimics natural tooth root function
Cons:
- Requires adequate bone density
- Longer healing time
2. Fibrointegration
Think of this as the implant making friends with your soft tissues.
- Implant attaches to the soft tissue and periosteum
- Less common than osseointegration
- Used when bone quality is poor
Pros:
- Suitable for patients with poor bone quality
- Shorter healing time
Cons:
- Less stable than osseointegrated implants
- May not last as long
Types of Dental Implants Based on Material
1. Titanium Implants
The OG of dental implants!
- Most commonly used material
- Biocompatible (low rejection rate)
- Has been used for over 50 years
Pros:
- Strong and durable
- Well-researched with a long track record
- Osseointegrates well
Cons:
- Some patients may be allergic (very rare)
- Can sometimes show through thin gums
2. Zirconia Implants
The new kid on the block and hugely popular!
- Made from zirconium oxide, a ceramic material
- White in color, making them more aesthetically pleasing
- Popular, especially for front teeth
Pros:
- Metal-free and hypoallergenic
- Aesthetically pleasing (white color)
- Resistant to corrosion and bacterial adhesion
Cons:
- Less research on long-term success rates
- More expensive
3. Polymer Implants
These are like the plastic straws of the dental world – not used much anymore.
- Made from various polymer materials
- Not commonly used due to lower success rates
Pros:
- Flexible
- Can be less expensive
Cons:
- Less durable than metal or ceramic implants
- Higher failure rates
4. Carbon Implants
These are like the concept cars of the dental implant world – interesting idea, but not quite ready for mass production.
- Made from carbon-carbon compounds
- Still largely experimental
Pros:
- Potentially biocompatible
- May promote tissue growth
Cons:
- Limited research and clinical use
- Long-term effects unknown
Choosing the Right Implant: Factors to Consider
Picking the right implant isn’t like choosing a flavor at an ice cream shop. Here are some factors your dentist will consider:
- Bone density and quality
- Location of the missing tooth/teeth
- Number of teeth to replace
- Your overall health
- Cost and insurance coverage
- Your personal preferences
The Future of Dental Implants
Hold onto your toothbrushes, folks, because the future of dental implants is looking bright! Here are some exciting developments on the horizon:
- 3D-printed implants: Custom-made implants that perfectly fit your mouth.
- Growth factor-enhanced implants: Stimulate bone growth and speed healing.
- Nanostructured implants: Tiny implant-surface structures improving bone integration.
- Smart implants: Oral health monitoring implants, releasing antibiotics if needed.
What users are Saying?
The Bottom Line
Dental implants have come a long way since they were first introduced inthe 1960s, and they continue to evolve. Whether you’re looking at a single implant, All-on-4, All-on-6, or full mouth restoration, there’s likely a solution out there for you.
Remember, the best implant for you is the one that fits your specific needs, budget, and oral health condition. Always consult with a qualified dental professional to determine the best course of action for your smile.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go brush my teeth. All this talk about dental implants has me feeling extra protective of my natural chompers!
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
A: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. However, the crown attached to the implant may need replacement after 10-15 years.
A: Yes! Dental implants have been used for over 50 years and have a success rate of up to 98%.
A: The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort during healing is normal.
A: Most healthy adults can get dental implants. However, certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease may complicate the process.
A: Costs vary widely depending on the type of implant and your location. A single implant can cost $1,000 to $4,000, while full mouth implants can range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more.
A: All-on-4 uses just four implants to support a full arch of teeth, while traditional full arch implants might use 6-8 implants. All-on-4 can often be done in one day and may avoid the need for bone grafting.
Dr. Dominguez
MEDICAL REVIEWER
Dr. Dominguez has a talent in saving teeth involving complicated root canals, restoring teeth broken at or beneath the gum line.
A dental drill can cause tiny tooth fractures. The high speed produces heat and pressure making patients uncomfortable.
A dental laser doesn’t have any of these problems to deliver minimally invasive root canal procedures. Dr. Dominguez delivers unparalleled results with each root canal procedure.
Advanced lasers decrease the time for root canal procedures. Lasers minimize or eliminate gum bleeding, allowing for faster healing following a root canal than with traditional root canals procedures.
