Different types of dental implants

Medically reviewed by Gordana Čižmek, dr. dent. med., spec. · Last updated: July 2026

Dental implants are small posts fixed into the jaw that act as an artificial tooth root. They are a popular and effective way to replace missing or damaged teeth: they are designed to look and function like natural teeth and can improve both your oral health and your overall quality of life. Several types of implant are available, each with its own advantages.

Quick takeaways

• Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or a full arch (for example with All on 4).
• The two main types are endosteal implants (placed in the jawbone) and subperiosteal implants (placed on the bone, under the gum).
• Implants are made from titanium or ceramic (zirconia) – both are biocompatible.
• At OrthoDental we place Straumann and Neodent implants, from €1,500.
• The right implant for you is chosen by your dentist after a 3D scan.

There are several types of dental implant and procedure. It is best to let your dentist help you choose the option that suits you, depending on your oral health and the condition of your mouth. Implants can replace one tooth or several teeth, which is why there are different types:

Your dentist decides which implants are right for you after a 3D scan of your teeth, which assesses your oral health and any corrections needed. Broadly, dental implants fall into three groups that differ by the type of procedure and how they are placed.

Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and are made of titanium or ceramic. They are typically used for people who have healthy jaw tissue and enough bone density to support the implant. One advantage is their durability: they are designed to last a long time and provide a stable base for replacement teeth. However, fitting them can be time-consuming and requires surgery.

Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum tissue and above the jawbone. They are usually used for patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone to support an endosteal implant, and are made of titanium or ceramic and fixed to the jaw with metal supports. One advantage is that they can be placed without extensive surgery; however, they may not be as stable as endosteal implants and may need replacing in future.

All on 4 implants are designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. They are positioned so that a full arch of replacement teeth can be attached to them, and are usually used for patients who have lost all the teeth in an arch or have severe decay or damage.

Implants can be made from several materials. At OrthoDental we use only high-quality ceramic and titanium implants.

Ceramic dental implants are made of zirconium oxide, a biocompatible material that is highly resistant to corrosion and wear. One of their biggest advantages is their aesthetic appeal, as their tooth-like colour blends seamlessly with natural teeth. They are also hypoallergenic, so in most cases they do not cause an allergic reaction. Their high compatibility also makes them less likely to cause inflammation or irritation of the surrounding gum tissue – particularly important for patients who have gum disease or other oral-health problems.

Titanium is the most commonly used material for dental implants thanks to its high biocompatibility, strength and durability. It is also highly wear-resistant with a long service life. A key advantage of titanium is its ability to integrate with the jawbone – a process known as osseointegration – which allows the implant to become a permanent part of the jaw and provide a stable, secure base for the replacement tooth. (Source: NHS)

At OrthoDental we use the renowned Straumann and Neodent brands, which offer a range of high-quality options to suit each patient. Their ceramic and titanium implants are known for their durability, strength and aesthetic appeal. Straumann implants are known for their high biocompatibility and durability and are therefore slightly more expensive: a Straumann implant costs €2,500, while Neodent implants are available for €1,500. Both brands are highly reputable and among the very best implant providers.

Choosing between ceramic and titanium implants can be a difficult decision, and it ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. It is important to work with a qualified dental professional who can guide you through the decision and make sure you receive the best possible care. At OrthoDental we provide personalised advice and top-quality service.