When it comes to tooth replacement options, dental implants are considered to be the most effective solution. Unlike the more traditional methods such as removable dentures and dental bridges, dental implants are a permanent solution that allow the patient to have almost identical functionality that they had with their natural teeth.
Depending on the patients state of oral health prior to going through a tooth replacement procedure, there are several dental implant options available to suit each individual patients needs. Not only are there different sizes of dental implants available for varying jawbone densities, there are also different methods of attaching the implant to the jawbone.
The two main types of dental implant procedures available are:
- endosteal implants – these are the traditional type of implants consisting of a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone, acting similar to a natural tooth root.
- subperiosteal implants – these are less commonly used. They consist of surgically attaching a custom made titanium frame over the jawbone, where posts attached to the frame will support the final prosthetic teeth.
Endosteal are the most commonly used dental implants, but can only work on individuals who have a relatively healthy jawbone, or who can successfully undergo a bone grafting procedure to increase the bone density. Within the group of endosteal implants, there are two sizes of implants that can be used, once again depending on the patients jawbone health:
- standard size implants
- mini dental implants
To understand the differences between these implant types, and when each one would be used, check out our endosteal vs subperiosteal implants page and standard vs mini dental implants page.