Dental implants come in a few different types that can help your cosmetic dentistry specialist find the best treatment route for your mouth. Traditional dental implants are called endosteal implants and work well for most patients seeking a dental replacement option. But there are some situations where subperiosteal implants would work better.

What are the pros and cons of subperiosteal versus endosteal dental implants? Here are some factors to discuss with your family dentistry or cosmetic dentist office.

Subperiosteal Pro: Suitable for Narrow Jawbone Ridges

An endosteal implant has a titanium root that has to screw down into the jawbone, which then heals around and secures the root. The placement of the root and proper healing of the bone both depend on sufficient jawbone health and density. If you have a narrow jawbone ridge naturally or due to decay, you might lack the amount of bone needed to properly support an endosteal implant.

A subperiosteal implant can work better for those with narrow jawbone ridges. The base of the implant is a metal plate with an inverted u-shape that sits over the jawbone ridge instead of going into the bone. The gum tissue heals in place over the plate and secures

Subperiosteal Pro: Shorter Treatment Period

Endosteal implants require the dentist to first drill into the jawbone then insert a titanium screw to act as the artificial root. The soft tissue is stitched closed over the root and you will have to wait for the bone to heal around the root before finishing treatment. The wait period can amount to a number of months.

Subperiosteal implants can require two appointments if the dentist wants to let the soft tissue heal before snapping on the artificial tooth, also called an abutment. But even with the healing stage the overall treatment process will prove far shorter than with an endosteal implant.

Subperiosteal Con: Less Stability than Endosteal

Dental implants are well known for having one of the most stable, natural-feeling results – when the implant is an endosteal that has the root embedded in the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants don't have the same level of stability since the root doesn't go into the jawbone but rather rests on the bone and has the soft tissue holding the implant steady.

The lessened stability doesn't mean that a subperiosteal is unstable or will feel unnatural. The implant still has more support than a traditional partial or full denture plate and should feel natural enough while you chew.

If you still aren't sure whether subperiosteal or endosteal implants are right for you, ask your cosmetic dentist for a consultation. Your dentist can provide tailored advice and guidance on what treatment plan will best suit your personal situation and needs.