What Are the 3 Types of Dental Implants? A Full Guide

Dental
Oct 2, 2025

What are the 3 types of dental implants is a question not many patients ask.

However, we make sure to explain to them how these types differ from each other.

Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for restoring missing teeth, and an option always on the table in Junction Family Dental Care in Toronto.

Here, we guide patients through their choices to ensure the right implant treatment for their smile.

In this article, you’ll learn about the 3 main types of implants, their advantages, and which might be best for you.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants provide more than just a nice appearance. 

They help you chew properly, keep your bones healthy, and stop nearby teeth from shifting. 

Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are attached to the jawbone, giving you better stability and lasting power.

They are also a better option than a simple set of crowns when you lose a tooth. 

With proper care, implants can last for many years. 

Benefits of Dental Implants Over Other Treatments

Compared to bridges or dentures, implants have several advantages:

  • They look and feel natural.
  • They help keep your jawbone strong.
  • They provide long-lasting support.
  • They do not require changing nearby teeth.

Wondering how much they cost in Ontario? Visit our guide.

The 3 Types of Dental Implants

When you visit The Junction Family Dental Care in Ontario for a dental implant, we will explain the three different types available and help you choose the best one for your needs.

In the meantime, read through this guide.

1. Endosteal Implants (Most Common)

  • Pros: Strong, reliable, and long-lasting.
  • Cons: Needs good bone density and time to heal.

Endosteal implants are the most common type. 

They are small titanium screws placed directly into the jawbone. 

After healing, they serve as a strong base for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Patients with healthy bone structure are the best candidates for this type. 

2. Subperiosteal Implants

  • Pros: Less invasive and suitable for thin bone.
  • Cons: Not as stable as endosteal implants and less common today.

Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue. 

How? Well, a metal framework holds the implant in place.

Patients who lack enough healthy jawbone and prefer not to have a bone graft can benefit from this type.

3. Zygomatic Implants

  • Pros: Provides an option when bone grafts aren't possible.
  • Cons: Complex surgery and needs an experienced specialist.

Zygomatic implants are the least common and most complex. 

Instead of going into the jawbone, they are placed into the cheekbone (zygoma). 

Patients with severe bone loss who cannot have traditional implants may choose Zygomatic Implants.

The Dental Implant Process

Once we choose the best dental implant for you, we will begin the process of installing it.

1. Consultation and Planning  

The process starts with a detailed consultation. 

We'll look over your medical and dental history, take X-rays or 3D scans, and check your oral health. 

2. Surgical placement of the implant  

After making the plan, we’ll schedule the surgery. 

During this procedure, we will place a titanium post (the implant) into your jawbone or, for some patients with less bone in the jaw, into the cheekbone. 

This post acts like an artificial tooth root and provides a solid base for your new tooth (a crown, a bridge, or a denture) 

3. Healing and osseointegration  

Once the implant is placed, your body will start healing through a process called osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone. 

It is important to avoid dairy during this stage. 

This stage is vital for the long-term success of the implant, as it ensures stability. 

Healing times vary, but usually take a few weeks to several months, depending on your health and bone quality.

4. Final restoration  

When the implant is securely in place, we will attach the visible part of your new tooth. 

Depending on your plan, this could be a single crown, a dental bridge, or a full denture supported by multiple implants. 

The restoration will match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, just like a veneer

5. Recovery and aftercare  

Recovering from this process is similar to what you experience after a tooth extraction

At first, stick to soft foods and chew gently to avoid disturbing the healing area. 

Good oral hygiene, including regular rinsing and proper brushing, is crucial to prevent infection and help with healing. 

Most patients can return to normal eating habits soon, but long-term success depends on ongoing dental care and checkups.

FAQs 

1. What are the 3 types of dental implants?

The 3 types of dental implants are endosteal implants (placed in the jawbone), subperiosteal implants (placed on top of the jawbone under the gums), and zygomatic implants (anchored in the cheekbone).

2. What is the best type of dental implant?

For patients, Endosteal implants are the most common and reliable choice.

3. Are subperiosteal implants still used?

This option is not very common today, but it can help patients with thin bones who want to avoid grafting.

4. How long does recovery take?

Most patients return to their normal routines within a few days. It may take several months for the full healing to occur.

5. Can I eat normally after implants?

Yes, but recovery involves a soft diet first

6. Do dental implants hurt?

Anesthesia is given during surgery. After surgery, any discomfort is manageable and is similar to recovering from wisdom tooth removal.

7. What if I have bone loss?

Bone grafting or zygomatic implants can be options for treatment.

8. Where can I get dental implants in Toronto?

At The Junction Family Dental Care, we specialize in implants tailored to your needs. Contact us here.

In Summary

So, what are the 3 types of dental implants? 

The types of dental implants are endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. 

Endosteal implants are the most common and meet different patient needs.

At The Junction Family Dental Care, we will help you find the best implant type for your oral health, budget, and long-term goals. 

Book your consultation with The Junction today.

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