Dental Implant Types. Two types of implants are deemed safe by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.

• Endosteal implants are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone and are the most commonly used implants. A second surgery is required to connect a post to the original implant once the surrounding gum tissue has healed. Finally, a false tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post, either individually or in groups on a bridge or denture.
• Subperiosteal implants — These dental implants are used for patients who lack sufficient healthy bone. Below the gum tissue, a metal frame is attached to the jawbone. The frame is attached to the jawbone as the gums heal. Posts protrude through the gums and are attached to the frame. Artificial teeth are then attached to the posts in the same way that endosteal implants are.