August 28, 2025
Thinking about dental implants, but not sure which type is right for you? You’re not alone. Implants come in three main forms, each designed for different needs. Knowing the differences helps you choose confidently, protect your smile, and avoid costly mistakes at the dentist’s chair.
Dental implants come in three main types: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. Each suits different jawbone conditions, budgets, and treatment goals. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right option for a stable, natural-looking smile.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants function as durable anchors that restore both oral function and natural appearance.
Why They Matter
Unlike dentures that may shift or bridges that depend on adjacent teeth, implants are self-supporting. They also preserve jawbone density, which commonly diminishes after tooth loss. Furthermore, implants mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, enabling comfortable eating and speaking.
Key Benefits
Who Can Get Them?
Not all patients are immediate candidates for dental implants. Good oral health, sufficient jawbone density, and healthy gums are essential. In cases of bone loss, preparatory procedures such as bone grafting may be required before implants can be placed.
Dental implants are not universally identical. Dentists recommend specific types based on jawbone quality, oral health, and patient needs. The three primary types are endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants. Each type has distinct advantages, limitations, and indications.
What They Are
Endosteal implants are the most common type, placed directly into the jawbone to act as artificial roots.
They are ideal for patients with sufficient bone density and good oral health. The procedure involves inserting a titanium screw into the jawbone, followed by a healing period of several months.
An abutment and prosthetic crown are then attached. These implants are highly durable and function like natural teeth, but require adequate bone support and longer recovery.
Who They’re Best For
These implants work best if you have a healthy, dense jawbone. Good oral health is also important because the bone needs to heal tightly around the implant. They’re ideal for people missing one or multiple teeth who want a permanent fix.
The Procedure
First, the dentist places a titanium screw into the jawbone. After a healing period, usually a few months, an abutment is added to hold the crown. The final step is attaching a natural-looking replacement tooth.
Benefits
Drawbacks
What They Are
Subperiosteal implants rest on top of the jawbone beneath the gum tissue, supported by a metal framework.
They are recommended for patients with insufficient jawbone density who cannot undergo bone grafting.
The framework is surgically placed, and posts protrude through the gums to support prosthetic teeth. While they offer a solution for patients with limited bone, they are less stable than endosteal implants and may require replacement sooner.
Who They’re Best For
They’re suited for people who don’t have enough healthy jawbone and can’t or don’t want to undergo bone grafting. It’s also a solution for those who prefer a less invasive process.
The Procedure
The dentist creates a custom metal frame that rests on the jawbone beneath the gums. Once the gums heal, posts from the frame stick out, and artificial teeth are attached to them.
Benefits
Drawbacks
What They Are
Zygomatic implants are the least common and most complex type. Instead of being anchored in the jawbone, they are secured into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), which provides greater density and support.
They are indicated for patients with severe maxillary bone loss where grafting is not feasible. The procedure is highly specialised and carries increased risk, requiring an experienced implant surgeon. In some cases, provisional prosthetic teeth may be placed immediately.
Who They’re Best For
They’re mainly recommended when you’ve lost significant bone in the upper jaw. If bone grafting isn’t possible or you want to avoid multiple surgeries, this option could work.
The Procedure
The dentist inserts long implants into the cheekbone through the upper jaw. This procedure is more advanced and requires a highly skilled specialist. In many cases, patients can get temporary teeth the same day.
Benefits
Drawbacks
Bone Density: Patients with sufficient bone generally qualify for endosteal implants, while those with reduced density may require subperiosteal or zygomatic options.
General Health: Systemic conditions such as diabetes and lifestyle factors like smoking can affect healing.
Budget and Goals: Endosteal implants are typically more cost-effective, while zygomatic implants involve higher expense due to surgical complexity.
Professional Evaluation: A comprehensive dental assessment is essential to determine the most appropriate option.
Endosteal implants: The most common and generally the least costly option, though prices vary by surgical complexity and materials.
Subperiosteal implants: Typically more expensive than endosteal due to the customised framework.
Zygomatic implants: The highest cost option, reflecting the need for advanced surgical expertise and specialised equipment.
Daily Cleaning
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth. Patients should brush and floss daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Regular professional cleanings and examinations are essential to monitor implant health. Avoiding smoking and limiting sugar intake helps maintain gum health.
With consistent care, implants can last decades.
Routine Check-Ups
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams. Early check-ups catch small issues before they become big problems.
Healthy Habits
Avoid smoking and limit sugary foods, as they can affect healing and gum health. Stick to a balanced diet to support strong implants.
Long-Term Care
With consistent care, implants can last decades. Treat them as an investment in your smile and overall confidence.
Myth 1: Implants are painful. In reality, modern anaesthesia and surgical techniques minimise discomfort, with most patients experiencing only mild post-operative soreness.
Myth 2: Implants do not last long. With proper oral hygiene and professional maintenance, implants can last for decades.
Myth 3: Implants are only for older adults. Age is not a limiting factor; suitability depends on oral and systemic health.
Dental implants provide a long-term solution for tooth replacement, restoring both function and aesthetics. The choice between endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants depends on bone structure, health status, and personal goals.
A professional evaluation ensures the most suitable option for achieving a stable and natural-looking smile.
.jpg)
