Dental implants come in several types, and they can be classified in two ways: by how they are placed in the jaw (endosteal, subperiosteal, zygomatic, or mini) and by how many teeth they replace (single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch). The right type for you depends on your bone density, the number of missing teeth, and your overall oral health.
Most guides only group implants by how many teeth you are replacing. That is useful, but it misses an important part of the picture — the placement method matters too, because it determines whether you need bone grafting, how long treatment takes, and what the long-term outcome looks like. Below, we cover both classifications so you can walk into your consultation with a clearer understanding of the options available to you.
How Dental Implants Are Classified: Two Ways to Look at It
If you are new to what dental implants are and how they work, it helps to know that there are two axes along which implant types are organised:
- Axis 1 — Placement method: Where and how the implant fixture sits in (or on) your jaw. This is determined by your bone volume, bone quality, and the location of the missing tooth.
- Axis 2 — Treatment scope: How many teeth the implant system replaces — a single tooth, several adjacent teeth, or an entire arch.
Your clinician considers both axes together. For example, a patient with healthy bone replacing one tooth will typically receive an endosteal single-tooth implant, while a patient with severe upper-jaw bone loss replacing a full arch may be a candidate for zygomatic implants supporting an All-on-4 prosthesis. Understanding both dimensions helps you ask more informed questions at your consultation.
Types of Dental Implants by Placement Method
Endosteal Implants (the Standard)
Endosteal implants are the most widely used type of dental implants worldwide. A small titanium post — typically between 3.5 mm and 5 mm in diameter — is surgically placed directly into the jawbone. Over the following weeks, the bone grows around and bonds with the implant surface in a process called osseointegration.
Published long-term studies report survival rates above 95% over ten years for endosteal implants placed in adequate bone. They are suitable for replacing a single tooth, supporting a bridge, or anchoring a full-arch restoration. The main requirement is sufficient bone density and volume at the implant site. If bone has been lost — through gum disease, prolonged tooth loss, or other factors — a bone graft may be needed before or during implant placement.
Endosteal implants are the type most patients receive, and they form the foundation of the treatment we provide at Stella Dental across our three clinics.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum tissue, rather than inside the bone itself. A custom-made metal framework is placed over the bone ridge, and posts protrude through the gum to support the prosthetic teeth.
This type is sometimes considered for patients who lack sufficient bone height or density for endosteal implants and who prefer not to undergo bone grafting. Subperiosteal implants are far less common today than they once were, largely because advances in bone-grafting techniques and alternative approaches (such as zygomatic implants) now offer solutions that were not previously available.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are longer than standard implants and anchor into the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone) rather than the upper jawbone. They are a specialist option for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw who might otherwise need extensive bone grafting before implant treatment.
Because zygomatic implants bypass the deteriorated upper jaw altogether, they can sometimes reduce overall treatment time by avoiding a separate grafting procedure. This is a complex treatment carried out by experienced implant clinicians, typically in cases where conventional approaches are not feasible. If your clinician recommends zygomatic implants, they will explain the specific benefits and considerations for your situation.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants (MDIs) are narrower than standard implants, typically between 1.8 mm and 3.3 mm in diameter compared with 3.5 mm to 5 mm for conventional endosteal implants. Their smaller size means placement is often less invasive, sometimes performed through the gum without a surgical flap.
Mini implants are most commonly used to stabilise a loose lower denture, providing improved retention and comfort. They are generally not recommended as a substitute for standard implants in load-bearing situations such as replacing individual teeth with crowns, because their narrower diameter limits the forces they can withstand. Your clinician can advise whether mini implants are appropriate for your needs.
Types of Dental Implants by Treatment Scope
Single-Tooth Implants
A single dental implant replaces one missing tooth with a titanium post, an abutment, and a custom-made crown. Unlike a traditional bridge, it does not require the adjacent teeth to be filed down for support — your neighbouring teeth remain untouched.
Single implants also help preserve the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. When a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it begins to resorb over time because it is no longer stimulated by chewing forces. An implant provides that stimulation and can help maintain bone volume.
Stella Dental offers single implant treatment at all three locations. You can learn more about single implants in Stafford, single implants in Stourbridge, or single implants in Nottingham.
Implant-Supported Bridges (Multiple Teeth)
When several adjacent teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge can be a more practical and cost-effective solution than placing one implant per tooth. Typically, two or three implants are placed to support a bridge spanning three to six replacement teeth.
This approach reduces the number of surgical sites, lowers the overall cost, and still provides a fixed, stable restoration. The bridge is cemented or screwed onto the implants and functions much like natural teeth. It is a good option for patients who have lost several teeth in a row — whether from gum disease, trauma, or decay — and want a fixed rather than removable replacement. For a comparison with non-implant options, see our guide to dental implants compared with bridges.
Full-Arch Implants: All-on-4 and All-on-6
For patients missing most or all teeth in one jaw, full-arch implant treatment provides a complete, fixed set of replacement teeth supported by four to six implants. The All-on-4 technique uses four strategically angled implants to maximise contact with available bone, while All-on-6 uses six implants for additional support.
Full-arch treatment can be life-changing for patients who have struggled with loose or uncomfortable dentures. The result is a fixed prosthesis that does not need to be removed for cleaning and that restores chewing function to a level much closer to natural teeth. Some patients are also candidates for removable implant-retained overdentures, which clip onto the implants and can be taken out for cleaning.
We offer this treatment at each of our clinics — learn more about full-mouth implants in Stafford, full-mouth implants in Stourbridge, or full-mouth implants in Nottingham. For a detailed comparison of the approaches, see dental implants compared with All-on-4, and explore full-arch implant solutions for further reading.
Immediate-Load (Same-Day) Implants
Immediate-load implants — sometimes called same-day teeth — allow a temporary crown or prosthesis to be attached to the implant on the same day it is placed, rather than waiting several months for osseointegration to complete before loading.
Not every patient is a candidate for immediate loading. It generally requires good bone density, sufficient primary stability of the implant at placement, and a clinical scenario that supports early loading without compromising the long-term outcome. Your clinician will assess whether this approach is appropriate for you. It is important to have realistic expectations: the temporary restoration placed on the day is typically replaced with a final prosthesis once healing is complete.
Implant Materials: Titanium vs Zirconia
The vast majority of dental implants used today are made from titanium or titanium alloy. Titanium is highly biocompatible — the body accepts it well — and it bonds reliably with living bone through osseointegration. Decades of clinical evidence support its use, and it remains the standard material for implant dentistry.
Zirconia (a ceramic material) implants have emerged as an alternative, particularly for patients who have concerns about having metal in their body or who have a known sensitivity to titanium (which is uncommon). Zirconia implants are tooth-coloured, which can offer an aesthetic advantage in certain situations — for example, where the gum tissue is thin and a dark titanium post might show through.
However, zirconia implants have a shorter track record than titanium, and the long-term clinical data, while growing, is not yet as extensive. Your clinician can discuss whether a zirconia implant is suitable for your situation. For related reading, see our article on having an MRI scan with dental implants — a common concern for patients with titanium implants.
Which Type of Dental Implant Is Right for You? A Decision Framework
Every patient's mouth is different, and the right type of implant depends on your specific clinical situation. The table below offers a general starting point — but it is not a substitute for a thorough clinical assessment, including imaging such as a CT scan.
| Your situation | Likely implant approach |
|---|---|
| One missing tooth with healthy surrounding bone | Endosteal single dental implant with a crown |
| Several adjacent missing teeth | Implant-supported bridge (two or three implants supporting multiple crowns) |
| All or most teeth missing in one arch | Full-arch implant treatment (All-on-4 or All-on-6) |
| Insufficient bone in the upper jaw | Zygomatic implants, or bone grafting followed by endosteal implants |
| Insufficient bone in the lower jaw | Subperiosteal implants (less common today), or bone grafting followed by endosteal implants |
| Loose denture needing stabilisation | Mini dental implants to retain the existing denture |
| Need replacement teeth quickly | Immediate-load implants, if clinical conditions allow |
These are general patterns, not rules. Your clinician will assess your bone density, gum health, bite, medical history, and personal preferences before recommending a specific type. If you are exploring your options for replacing missing teeth, a consultation is the logical next step.
How Much Do Different Dental Implants Cost in the UK?
Dental implant costs in the UK vary widely depending on the type of implant, the number of implants needed, and any preparatory procedures such as bone grafting. As a broad guide:
- Single-tooth implant: typically in the region of £2,000 to £3,000, including the implant, abutment, and crown.
- Implant-supported bridge: costs depend on the number of implants and the span of the bridge.
- Full-arch treatment (All-on-4 or All-on-6): typically in the region of £10,000 to £15,000 per arch, though this varies with complexity.
These are indicative UK ranges, not fixed prices — every case is different. For a more detailed breakdown, see our guide to how much dental implants cost in the UK.
Preparatory Procedures That May Affect Your Options
Before an implant can be placed, your clinician needs to confirm that the jawbone can support it. This assessment typically involves a CT scan or cone-beam scan, which creates a detailed three-dimensional image of your bone structure.
If the scan reveals insufficient bone, one or more preparatory procedures may be recommended:
- Bone grafting: Adding bone material to the jaw to build up volume and density.
- Sinus lift: Raising the sinus floor in the upper jaw to create space for an implant.
- Ridge augmentation: Rebuilding a narrow or uneven bone ridge to provide a stable foundation.
These procedures add time and cost to the overall treatment plan, but they can make implants possible for patients who would otherwise not have enough bone. Your clinician will explain which, if any, preparatory steps are needed in your case. You can also read more about the dental implant process step by step.
Book a Consultation at Stella Dental
The right type of dental implant for you depends on factors that can only be assessed in person — your bone density, gum health, the position of the missing teeth, and your overall medical history. At Stella Dental, our implant clinicians use detailed imaging and a thorough clinical examination to recommend the approach that suits your situation.
We offer implant consultations at our clinics in Stafford, Stourbridge, and Nottingham. Book a consultation to discuss your options with our team.
This article was written by the Stella Dental team for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional clinical advice. A qualified dental clinician should assess your individual circumstances before any treatment decisions are made.
Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Dental Implants
What are the main types of dental implants?
Dental implants are classified in two ways. By placement method, the main types are endosteal (placed into the jawbone), subperiosteal (placed on top of the jawbone), zygomatic (anchored in the cheekbone), and mini implants (narrower diameter). By treatment scope, they include single-tooth implants, implant-supported bridges for several missing teeth, and full-arch systems such as All-on-4 and All-on-6.
What is the most common type of dental implant?
Endosteal implants are by far the most common. They are placed directly into the jawbone and have the longest track record of clinical success, with published studies reporting survival rates above 95% over ten years. The vast majority of implant treatments carried out in the UK use endosteal implants.
Can I get dental implants if I have low bone density?
Yes, in many cases. If your jawbone lacks the volume or density needed for standard endosteal implants, there are several options. Bone grafting can build up the bone before implant placement. For severe upper-jaw bone loss, zygomatic implants anchor into the cheekbone instead. Subperiosteal implants, though less common today, sit on top of the bone rather than inside it. Your clinician will assess your bone with a CT scan and recommend the most suitable approach.
What is the difference between All-on-4 and single dental implants?
A single dental implant replaces one missing tooth with one implant post and one crown. All-on-4 is a full-arch solution that uses four implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth for an entire jaw. The right option depends on how many teeth you need to replace. For a detailed comparison, see our guide to dental implants compared with All-on-4.
Are mini implants as good as standard implants?
Mini implants serve a different purpose. Their narrower diameter (1.8 mm to 3.3 mm, compared with 3.5 mm to 5 mm for standard implants) makes them well suited to stabilising dentures, but they are generally not recommended for load-bearing restorations such as individual crowns. They are not a like-for-like replacement for standard endosteal implants — rather, they are a useful option in specific clinical situations.
How much do different types of dental implants cost in the UK?
Costs vary by type and complexity. As a broad guide, a single-tooth implant typically costs in the region of £2,000 to £3,000, while full-arch treatment (All-on-4 or All-on-6) is typically in the region of £10,000 to £15,000 per arch. Preparatory procedures such as bone grafting add to the total. For more detail, see our guide to how much dental implants cost in the UK.
What is the difference between titanium and zirconia implants?
Most dental implants are made from titanium, which has decades of clinical evidence behind it and bonds reliably with bone. Zirconia is a ceramic alternative that is tooth-coloured and metal-free, which may suit patients with aesthetic concerns or a rare sensitivity to titanium. However, zirconia implants have a shorter track record, and long-term data is still emerging. Your clinician can advise which material is appropriate for your case.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, many dental implants last well over a decade, and it is not uncommon for them to remain functional for twenty years or more. The implant post itself (the part in the bone) can last a very long time; the crown or prosthesis on top may need replacing due to normal wear. For a detailed look at what affects implant longevity, see our article on how long dental implants typically last. You can also read about what recovery after dental implants is like and whether dental implants are painful.
