Types of Dental Implants: Which Is Right for You?
Types of Dental Implants: Which Is Right for You?
Missing teeth affect more than just your smile — they can impact your ability to chew, your speech, and even the health of your jawbone. Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement because they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. At Brite Choice Dental, our experienced oral surgeons place implants at all three locations in Duarte, El Monte, and Santa Fe Springs.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a crown is attached on top, creating a permanent, natural-looking replacement tooth.
The Three Main Types of Implants
1. Endosteal Implants
These are the most common type of dental implant and the standard of care in modern dentistry.
- Placement: Surgically inserted directly into the jawbone.
- Material: Typically made of titanium, shaped like small screws.
- Best for: Patients with adequate healthy jawbone density.
- Healing time: 3–6 months for osseointegration before the crown is placed.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
These sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue.
- Placement: Placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone (not inside it).
- Best for: Patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone and cannot or do not want to undergo a bone grafting procedure.
- Less common today due to advances in bone augmentation techniques.
3. Zygomatic Implants
The least common type, used in complex cases.
- Placement: Anchored into the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the jawbone.
- Best for: Patients with severe jawbone loss who are not candidates for traditional implants or bone grafting.
- Requires a highly skilled oral surgeon — this is the most complex implant procedure.
Implant Materials
Most implants are made from:
- Titanium — the most widely used material, proven safe and biocompatible over decades of clinical use.
- Zirconia — a ceramic alternative for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies, though less commonly available.
Bone Grafting: Building a Foundation
If your jawbone is too thin or soft to support an implant, a bone graft may be needed before placement. This involves adding bone material to the jaw to create a solid foundation. Healing from a bone graft typically takes 4–6 months before the implant can be placed.
Which Implant Is Right for You?
The best way to determine which implant is suitable for your situation is to schedule a consultation. During your visit, we will:
- Take 3D imaging (CBCT scan) to evaluate your bone health
- Review your dental and medical history
- Discuss your goals and timeline
- Create a personalized treatment plan
Schedule Your Implant Consultation
Our oral surgery team at Brite Choice Dental has extensive experience placing implants. We accept most PPO insurance plans, Medicare, and Denti-Cal, and offer payment plans to make treatment affordable.
- Duarte: (833) 952-8989
- El Monte: (855) 618-0006
- Santa Fe Springs: (844) 779-1400
Call today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile.