Dental Implant Types

Implant dentistry offers individuals with missing teeth the opportunity to once again have aesthetically appealing and functional teeth. A single dental implant or multiple implants can be secured to the jawbone and capped with natural-looking prosthetic teeth for a comfortable, confident smile. If you are considering investing in dental implants, read the sections below for information about several tooth implant systems and common dental implant types:

Common Types of Dental Implants

There are many different dental implant types, each one designed to meet specific patient needs; only after a thorough evaluation will your dentist recommend the best treatment option for you.

Root-Form Titanium Implant

Of all the types of dental implants, the root-form titanium dental implant is the most common. This option is also known as an endosseous or endosteal implant, a name that stems from the fact that these tooth implants are placed directly in the bone. Root-form implants are made of the reliably strong and corrosion-resistant metal titanium, making these dental implants very similar in appearance to screws, nails, or cones.

Sub-Periosteal Implant

The sub-periosteal implant is commonly used in patients who do not have enough bone in the jaw to support a root-form implant. Sub-periosteal tooth implants are placed over the jaw, rather than in it.

Plate-Form Implant

This category of dental implant consists of a rectangle of metal with either one or two metal prongs on one side. Plate-form implants are placed vertically in the jaw so that the prongs stick up into the mouth and provide a place for the artificial tooth to be placed.

Ramus-Frame Implant

Commonly used in patients with a thin lower jawbone, ramus-frame tooth implants are placed in the jaw at the back of the mouth and near the chin. Full or partial dentures are then made to fit on the thin metal bar that is visible above the gum tissue, once it heals.

Transosseous Implant

Used only in the lower jaw, transosseous tooth implants are bolted onto the jawbone and extend along the entire bottom half of the mouth. This dental implant configuration is rarely used.

Locate a Qualified Dentist in Your Area

If you would like to learn more about titanium posts and other dental implant types, you can find a qualified implant dentist in your area through DocShop's online directory. We link patients who need treatment in certain areas to the specific doctors who are qualified to meet their medical needs.