“By age 50, the average American has lost 12 teeth.” That’s not a typo. Twelve. Whether it’s from decay, gum disease, or injury, tooth loss is way more common than you think.
But here’s the upside: dental implants have completely changed the game. And at Laguna Heights Dental, we help people every day restore their smile and confidence using implants that look and feel just like the real thing.
But with so many dental implant types out there, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That’s exactly what we’re breaking down today.
Why Dental Implants?
Before diving into the types, let’s quickly talk about why implants are such a big deal.
Unlike dentures, implants are fixed in place. They don’t slip. They don’t click. They don’t need to be soaked overnight.
Even better? They help prevent bone loss, keep your facial structure intact, and let you eat pretty much anything you want.
Alright, now let’s talk types.
1. Single-Tooth Implants
Lost one tooth? This one’s for you.
A single-tooth implant replaces both the root and the crown. It’s made up of three parts:
- The implant post (goes into your jawbone)
- The abutment (connects the post and crown)
- The crown (the part that looks like a tooth)
It blends in with your natural teeth. Most people can’t tell the difference.
Perfect for: People missing just one tooth with otherwise healthy gums and bone.
2. Implant-Supported Bridges
Missing a few teeth in a row? Instead of one implant per tooth, we place one on each end and anchor the bridge to them.
No need for a full row of implants. That means less surgery, lower cost, and faster healing.
Perfect for: People missing 2–5 adjacent teeth.
3. Full-Arch Implants (All-on-4 / All-on-6)
Now we’re talking full-mouth restoration. These systems support a full set of teeth on just 4 to 6 implants per arch.
Instead of replacing each tooth individually, we place implants strategically to hold a permanent denture in place.
It looks natural. Functions beautifully. And feels amazing compared to traditional dentures.
Perfect for: Patients missing most or all of their teeth (top or bottom).
4. Mini Dental Implants
These are smaller in diameter than traditional implants. They’re often used in patients who don’t have enough bone for regular implants and can’t or don’t want bone grafting.
While not ideal for every case, they work well for stabilizing dentures or replacing small teeth (like lower incisors).
Perfect for: Patients with bone loss or looking for a less invasive option.
5. Zygomatic Implants
These are used in rare, complex cases where there’s severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Instead of anchoring into the jawbone, they go into the cheekbone (zygoma).
This is more of a specialty treatment, but we want to mention it because it shows just how far implant technology has come.
Perfect for: Severe upper jaw bone loss cases where standard implants aren’t possible.
Choosing the Right Implant at Laguna Heights Dental
This isn’t a decision you make alone. We take our time to:
- Review your medical history
- Scan your bone and gums in 3D
- Talk about your goals and budget
Then we create a custom plan that fits you like a glove. No pressure. Just honest guidance from a team that’s done this hundreds of times.
You won’t feel rushed. You’ll feel heard.
And yeah, we’ll be upfront about every detail—including cost, healing time, and what to expect.
So, What Should You Do Next?
Simple. Book a consultation.
If you’re in Laguna Niguel or nearby, come see us at Laguna Heights Dental. Let’s talk about your smile and figure out what type of dental implant makes the most sense for you.
It’s free to ask. And it might just be the first step toward something life-changing.
