Types of Dental Implants Explained

1. Endosteal (Standard) Implants

The most common type — a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone. After 3–6 months of healing, an abutment and crown are attached. Best for patients with adequate bone density.

Typical cost: $1,200–$5,500 per tooth (including crown).

2. Mini Implants

Narrower diameter implants, less invasive, often used to stabilize dentures. Lower cost but may not suit all cases or last as long as standard implants.

Typical cost: 20–30% less than standard implants. See mini vs standard comparison.

3. All-on-4 Implants

Four implants support a full arch of fixed teeth. Ideal for patients missing most teeth in one jaw. Often avoids bone grafting.

Typical cost: $12,000–$35,000 per arch. See our All-on-4 cost guide.

4. Zirconia vs. Titanium

Titanium is the gold standard for durability. Zirconia (ceramic) implants are metal-free and aesthetic but may cost 10–20% more.

5. Subperiosteal & zygomatic (rare)

Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone — used when bone volume is severely limited. Zygomatic implants anchor in the cheekbone for extreme upper jaw atrophy. Both are specialist procedures with significantly higher cost.

How to choose

1. CBCT scan assesses bone — determines standard vs. mini vs. graft need
2. Single tooth → standard endosteal in most cases
3. Full arch missing → All-on-4 or snap-on overdenture
4. Compare costs: mini vs standard, snap-on dentures