Missing teeth affect how you chew, speak, and smile. What are the 3 types of dental implants, and which one fits your jaw? The three main types are endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic implants. Each type anchors in a different place in your mouth. Your jawbone health decides which option works best for you.
This guide explains how each implant works, who benefits, and what to expect during treatment.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small post made of titanium or zirconia. Your dentist places it in or on your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Over several months, your bone fuses with the post through a process called osseointegration. After healing, your dentist attaches a connector piece called an abutment, followed by a custom crown, bridge, or denture.
Implants stay fixed in your mouth. They restore your bite and help protect your jawbone from shrinking after tooth loss.
For a side-by-side comparison with other options, read our guide on dental implants versus dentures and bridges.
What Are the 3 Types of Dental Implants?
Dentists group implants by where they anchor. Here are the three main types:
- Endosteal implants sit inside the jawbone.
- Subperiosteal implants rest on top of the jawbone, under the gum.
- Zygomatic implants anchor in the cheekbone.
1. Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. Your dentist places a screw-shaped post directly into your jawbone. Once the bone heals around the post, it holds a crown, bridge, or denture in a fixed position.
Endosteal implants suit you if:
- You have healthy, dense jawbone
- Your gums are free of active disease
- You want to replace one tooth, several teeth, or a full arch
Healing takes about 3 to 6 months. If your jawbone lacks volume, your dentist often recommends a bone graft before placement. A bone graft adds new bone to the site and gives the implant a stable base.
2. Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants rest on top of the jawbone and under the gum tissue. A custom metal frame follows the shape of your bone. Small posts rise through the gums to hold your replacement teeth.- You have too little jawbone for an endosteal implant
- You want to avoid bone grafting
- Your health rules out more extensive surgery
Dentists use subperiosteal implants less often today. Modern bone grafting and 3D imaging allow most patients to receive endosteal implants, which offer stronger long-term stability.
3. Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are the least common and most complex type. These longer implants anchor in your cheekbone, called the zygoma, instead of your upper jaw. The cheekbone has dense bone, so these implants hold firm even after the upper jaw loses bone.
Zygomatic implants suit you if:
- You have severe bone loss in your upper jaw
- You need a full arch of upper teeth
- You want to avoid extensive grafting or sinus lift surgery
This procedure requires advanced surgical training.
How Your Dentist Chooses the Right Implant Type
Knowing what are the 3 types of dental implants helps you ask better questions at your consultation. Your dentist reviews these factors before recommending one:
- Jawbone density and height: Imaging shows how much bone supports the implant.
- Number of missing teeth: Your plan differs for one tooth, several teeth, or a full arch.
- Gum health: Your dentist treats active gum disease before implant surgery.
- Medical history: Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes slow healing.
- Your goals: Some patients want fixed teeth, while others prefer a removable denture.
Read our article on whether dental implants are safe to learn about success rates and patient screening.
Dental Implant Cost by Type
Your total cost reflects the implant type, the number of teeth you replace, and any procedures you need before surgery.
| Treatment | National Average Cost (2026) | What the Price Covers |
| Endosteal implant (single tooth) | $3,000 to $6,500 per tooth | Implant post, abutment, and crown |
| Implant-supported dentures | $8,000 to $13,500 per arch | Two to four implants and a snap-on denture |
| Zygomatic implants | $25,000 to $50,000 per arch | Cheekbone implants and a full arch of fixed upper teeth |
| Subperiosteal implant | Priced case by case | Custom frame designed from 3D imaging of your jaw |
| Bone graft (if needed) | $500 to $3,500 per site | Graft material and placement, with cost based on graft size |
Disclaimer: The prices in this table reflect national averages for 2026 and serve as general information only. They do not represent the fees of any specific dental practice or a quote for your treatment. Your dentist provides an accurate estimate after a clinical exam and imaging.
How to Protect Your Dental Implant
Implants need daily care to last. Follow these steps:
- Brush Twice a Day: Brush your implant and natural teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush. Use nonabrasive toothpaste to protect the crown.
- Clean Between Your Teeth: Floss daily or use a water flosser around the implant. This removes plaque and food from spots your toothbrush misses.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to your gums and slows healing. Quitting lowers your risk of gum infection and implant failure.
- Wear a Night Guard: Grinding or clenching puts heavy pressure on your implant at night. A custom night guard protects the crown and surrounding bone.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Your dentist checks the implant, gums, and bone for problems.
Conclusion
Now you know what are the 3 types of dental implants: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. Endosteal implants suit most patients with healthy bone. Subperiosteal implants help patients with limited bone who want to avoid grafting. Zygomatic implants support patients with severe upper jaw bone loss. Your bone health, gum health, and goals guide the final choice.
At Bright Smiles Family Dentistry in Garner, NC, Dr. Rouhani and Dr. Hartman assess your jawbone with digital imaging and build a plan around your needs.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
Replace missing teeth with a solution built for your mouth. Bright Smiles Family Dentistry offers single-tooth implants, snap-on dentures, and full-arch restorations under one roof.
Call (919) 205-0640 to book your consultation, or visit our office at 801 US-70 #101, Garner, NC 27529. We accept all major insurance plans and offer flexible financing through Sunbit.
FAQs
How long do dental implants last?
With daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, the implant post often lasts a lifetime. The crown wears over time and usually needs replacement after 10 to 15 years.
Does dental implant surgery hurt?
Your dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia, so you feel pressure but no pain during the procedure. Mild soreness and swelling last a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses help you stay comfortable.
How long does the full implant process take?
Most patients complete treatment in 3 to 9 months. The timeline depends on your healing speed and whether you need tooth removal or bone grafting first.
Does dental insurance cover implants?
Coverage varies by plan. Some plans pay for part of the crown or surgery. Contact your insurance provider or ask our front desk to review your benefits before treatment.
Who is not a good fit for dental implants?
Heavy smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, active gum disease, and past radiation therapy to the jaw raise the risk of implant failure. Your dentist reviews your health history and recommends the safest option for you.
