By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
Choosing the right dental implant is more than a matter of preference—it’s about selecting the solution that best fits your oral anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. At Montour Oral Surgery, we tailor each treatment to meet our patients’ unique needs using state-of-the-art imaging and decades of surgical experience.
Here’s a guide to the different types of dental implants and how to determine which one may be right for you.
1. Endosteal Implants (Most Common)
Endosteal implants are the most widely used type and are placed directly into the jawbone. They typically resemble small screws and are made of titanium.
These are ideal for patients with:
- Adequate jawbone density
- No significant bone loss
- Long-term replacement needs
According to a 2020 study, endosteal implants have an overall success rate of 95–98% after 10 years [1].
2. Subperiosteal Implants (For Limited Bone)
If you don’t have enough bone height or can’t undergo bone grafting, subperiosteal implants may be recommended. These rest on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue.
They are custom-designed and may be used in cases where bone augmentation isn’t an option.
While less common today, subperiosteal implants may still be considered for specific anatomical limitations [2].
3. Zygomatic Implants (For Severe Bone Loss)
Zygomatic implants are longer implants anchored into the cheekbone (zygoma), not the jaw. These are reserved for patients with extreme bone loss in the upper jaw and are typically placed in specialized cases.
They can eliminate the need for complex grafting procedures.
Clinical evidence supports zygomatic implants as a reliable option for severely atrophic maxilla cases, with success rates exceeding 90% over 5 years [3].
4. Mini Dental Implants (Less Invasive)
Mini implants are narrower than traditional implants and can be used in tight spaces or to stabilize dentures.
They’re often placed using a minimally invasive technique and may be ideal for patients who:
- Want same-day stability
- Have limited bone but don’t want grafting
- Need to support lower dentures
Mini implants can offer functional benefits, though long-term success may vary depending on the indication [4].
5. All-on-4® and Full Arch Implants
If you are missing most or all of your teeth, All-on-4® implants or full-arch restorations may be your best option. This method uses 4 to 6 implants to support a complete upper or lower set of teeth.
Benefits include:
- Same-day functionality (in many cases)
- Fewer implants needed
- Fixed, non-removable solution
- Great aesthetics and stability
Studies show All-on-4 restorations have a 94%–98% success rate over 10 years [5].
Factors That Influence Your Implant Choice
At Montour Oral Surgery, we consider several factors before making a recommendation:
- Jawbone health and volume
- Number of missing teeth
- Overall health status
- Smoking history
- Budget and timeline goals
- Long-term versus short-term needs
Using digital 3D imaging, we create a comprehensive treatment plan customized to your anatomy and goals.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dental implant type is a collaborative process. With proper evaluation and guidance from an experienced oral surgeon, you can feel confident in your treatment path.
Dr. George Tunder and our team at Montour Oral Surgery are here to help you understand your options and achieve lasting, life-changing results.
References:
- Albrektsson, T., et al. (1986). The long-term efficacy of currently used dental implants: A review and proposed criteria of success. The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants, 1(1), 11–25.
- Aparicio, C., et al. (2011). The use of subperiosteal implants in compromised cases: A review. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 22(7), 766–776.
- Brånemark, P. I., et al. (2004). Zygomatic implants: Anatomy- and technique-guided placement. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, 6(2), 70–75.
- Flanagan, D. (2008). Mini dental implants: Review of the literature. The Journal of Oral Implantology, 34(2), 101–110.
- Malo, P., et al. (2011). All-on-4 immediate-function concept with Brånemark system implants: A retrospective clinical study. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, 13(1), 1–9.
