Dental implants offer one of the most advanced, natural-looking ways to replace missing teeth—but not all implants are the same. From single-tooth replacements to full-arch restorations, there’s a solution for every smile. The key is finding the one that fits your unique needs, lifestyle, and oral health goals.
At Laguna Heights Dental in Laguna Niguel, CA, Dr. Nazita Gaff specializes in personalized implant solutions. Whether you’re missing one tooth or many, she’ll help you understand the different types of implants available and guide you toward the right option for lasting comfort, function, and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, functioning as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, they are topped with custom-made restorations—such as crowns, bridges, or dentures—that restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Now let’s look at the different types of dental implants and who they’re best for.
Types of Dental Implants & Who They’re For
1. Single-Tooth Implants
Best for: Replacing one missing tooth without affecting neighboring teeth
✔ A single titanium implant topped with a crown
✔ Preserves bone and maintains alignment
✔ Ideal for patients with healthy surrounding teeth and bone
Perfect for: Anyone missing one tooth due to trauma, decay, or extraction
2. Implant-Supported Bridges
Best for: Replacing several missing teeth in a row
✔ Two or more implants support a custom bridge
✔ No need for removable partial dentures
✔ More stable and long-lasting than traditional bridges
Perfect for: Patients missing 2–4 teeth in one area who want a fixed solution
3. Full-Arch Implants (All-on-4 / All-on-6)
Best for: Replacing a full upper or lower set of teeth
✔ 4 to 6 implants support an entire row of non-removable teeth
✔ Teeth-in-a-day options available
✔ Eliminates the need for traditional dentures
Perfect for: Patients with significant tooth loss looking for a secure, life-changing solution
4. Implant-Supported Dentures
Best for: Denture wearers who want better comfort and stability
✔ Dentures “snap on” to 2–4 implants for a secure fit
✔ Easy to remove and clean
✔ Improved chewing and speech over traditional dentures
Perfect for: Patients who already wear dentures but want more security without full fixed implants
5. Mini Dental Implants
Best for: Patients with limited jawbone or smaller spaces
✔ Smaller diameter than traditional implants
✔ Less invasive and often no bone grafting required
✔ Great for stabilizing lower dentures
Perfect for: Patients who aren’t candidates for full-size implants but still want implant support
6. Zygomatic Implants
Best for: Patients with severe upper jaw bone loss
✔ Longer implants placed in the cheekbone (zygoma)
✔ Avoids the need for bone grafting
✔ Can support full arch restorations
Perfect for: Patients with advanced bone loss who have been told they’re not candidates for traditional implants
How to Choose the Right Implant for You
The best dental implant option depends on:
- How many teeth you’re missing
- Your bone density and jaw structure
- Your lifestyle, goals, and budget
- Your preference between fixed vs. removable solutions
At Laguna Heights Dental, Dr. Gaff will perform a comprehensive exam, 3D imaging, and health evaluation to determine which implant solution will deliver the best long-term results for your smile.
