Types
of Implants
Dental implants can be classified into three general categories: 1) endosteal, 2)
subperiosteal, and 3) transosteal.
Endosteal implants are similar in shape to the root of a natural
tooth, although some are shaped in the form of a blade. These implants serve as a
replacement for the roots of missing teeth, and are placed directly into the jaw bone and
become solidly anchored through a process called osseointegration. This process actually
integrates the jaw bone into the implant during the healing phase, producing a very strong
foundation for the artificial teeth that will be placed on the implants.
Endosteal ("within bone") implants are the most common type of dental
implants used today.