Not all dental implants in London, Ontario are the same — and choosing the right type makes a significant difference to your outcome, your recovery, and your long-term oral health. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch, this guide covers every implant type available at Apple Tree Dental, how each one works, who it’s best suited for, and how to decide which option fits your situation. Our team at both North and South London locations is here to help you make the right choice — backed by 3D imaging assessment, not guesswork.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post — usually made of titanium or zirconia — that is surgically placed into your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Over the following months, the bone fuses around it through a process called osseointegration, creating a permanent, stable foundation. A custom crown, bridge, or denture is then attached on top to complete the restoration.
A complete implant restoration has three components:
- Implant Post — the artificial root placed into the jawbone (titanium or zirconia)
- Abutment — the connector piece linking the post to the restoration
- Restoration — the crown, bridge, or denture visible above the gumline
According to the Canadian Dental Association, dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that actively preserves jawbone health — preventing the bone loss that occurs when a tooth is lost and not replaced.
Types by Placement: Endosteal vs. Subperiosteal
Before looking at treatment types, it helps to understand the two fundamental implant placement methods — which differ based on where in the jaw the implant is anchored:
Endosteal Implants — The Standard Choice
Endosteal implants are placed directly into the jawbone. They are the most common type — shaped like a small screw, cylinder, or blade — and offer the strongest, most stable long-term foundation. The vast majority of implant patients receive endosteal implants. They are suitable for patients with adequate bone density at the implant site.
Subperiosteal Implants — For Low Bone Volume
Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum tissue. A metal framework sits on the bone and protrudes through the gum to hold the restoration. This type is less common but remains a viable option for patients who cannot receive endosteal implants due to significant bone loss and who prefer not to undergo bone grafting.
Types by Treatment: Which Option Fits Your Situation?
1. Single Tooth Implant
The most common implant treatment. One endosteal post is placed into the jawbone, osseointegration occurs over 3–6 months, then a single custom crown is attached. The result is a replacement tooth that looks and functions identically to the natural tooth it replaces — with no impact on the healthy teeth on either side.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Implants required | 1 |
| Teeth replaced | 1 |
| Affects adjacent teeth? | No ✅ |
| Approx. cost London ON | CAD $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Total treatment time | 3–8 months |
See our full guide: Permanent Dental Implants London Ontario
2. Implant-Supported Bridge
For patients missing two to four adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge uses two implant posts to anchor a row of replacement teeth — no healthy neighbouring teeth are ground down to act as anchors, unlike a traditional dental bridge.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Implants required | 2 |
| Teeth replaced | 3–4 |
| Affects adjacent teeth? | No ✅ |
| Approx. cost London ON | CAD $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Total treatment time | 4–9 months |
3. All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 uses four strategically placed implants — two vertical at the front, two angled at the rear — to support a complete fixed arch of teeth. Same-day temporary teeth are placed on the day of surgery. Bone grafting is rarely required due to the angled rear implant technique.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Implants required | 4 per arch |
| Teeth replaced | Full arch (upper or lower) |
| Same-day teeth? | Yes ✅ |
| Approx. cost London ON | CAD $20,000 – $30,000/arch |
| Bone graft needed? | Rarely ✅ |
See our full guide: All-on-4 Dental Implants London Ontario
4. Implant-Supported Denture
For patients who want the stability benefits of implants at a lower cost than All-on-4, implant-supported dentures attach a removable or fixed denture to 2–4 implant posts. Far superior to traditional removable dentures — no adhesives, no slipping, and the implants still preserve jawbone health.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Implants required | 2–4 per arch |
| Removable? | Can be fixed or removable |
| Preserves bone? | Yes ✅ |
| Approx. cost London ON | CAD $10,000 – $25,000 |
| vs. traditional dentures | Far more stable, longer lasting |
5. Full Mouth Dental Implants
Complete upper and lower arch restoration using multiple implants — the most comprehensive treatment for patients who have lost all teeth on both arches. Provides maximum stability, function, and a completely natural appearance. Cost and implant count depend entirely on individual bone condition and restoration goals.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Implants required | Varies (usually 6–8 per arch) |
| Teeth replaced | All — upper and lower |
| Approx. cost London ON | CAD $40,000 – $90,000+ |
| Treatment time | 6–18 months depending on case |
Types by Material: Titanium vs. Zirconia
| Feature | Titanium Implant | Zirconia Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Metal alloy | Ceramic (metal-free) |
| Most common? | Yes ✅ | Less common |
| Osseointegration | Excellent — decades of data | Good — newer technology |
| For metal sensitivity | Rarely an issue — biocompatible | Ideal ✅ |
| Aesthetics | Very good | Superior (tooth-coloured) |
| Cost | Standard | Higher |
| Best for | Most patients | Metal sensitivity or aesthetic priority |
Titanium implants have decades of clinical research behind them and remain the gold standard. Zirconia implants are a newer, metal-free alternative with excellent biocompatibility — a good option for patients with metal sensitivities or those who prioritise aesthetics at the gumline. Your dentist will recommend the right material for your case at consultation.
All Implant Types — Side-by-Side Comparison
| Type | Teeth Replaced | Implants | Cost (CAD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Tooth | 1 | 1 | $3,000–$6,000 | One missing tooth |
| Implant Bridge | 3–4 | 2 | $6,000–$12,000 | Adjacent missing teeth |
| All-on-4 | Full arch | 4 | $20,000–$30,000/arch | Full arch, moderate bone loss |
| Implant Denture | Full arch | 2–4 | $10,000–$25,000 | Budget full-arch option |
| Full Mouth | Both arches | 6–8 per arch | $40,000–$90,000+ | Complete restoration |
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most healthy adults missing one or more teeth are candidates for some type of implant treatment. You’re likely a good candidate if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have healthy gums with no active gum disease
- Have adequate jawbone density (or are willing to consider grafting)
- Are in generally good overall health
- Are a non-smoker or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Even patients with significant bone loss often qualify — either through All-on-4’s angled implant technique, subperiosteal implants, or a bone grafting procedure before placement. The only reliable way to confirm candidacy is a 3D imaging assessment at consultation.
Important
Don’t self-assess your candidacy based on online articles — bone density, gum condition, and overall health all affect which implant type is right for you. A comprehensive 3D scan at Apple Tree Dental gives you a definitive, personalised answer.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dental Implant Types London Ontario
What is the most common type of dental implant?
Endosteal implants — placed directly into the jawbone — are by far the most common. They are used for single tooth, bridge, All-on-4, and full arch restorations. Subperiosteal implants are used only when bone volume is insufficient for endosteal placement.
What type of implant is best for a single missing tooth?
A single endosteal implant with a custom crown is the gold standard. It replaces both the root and the visible tooth without affecting adjacent healthy teeth — unlike a bridge, which requires grinding down neighbouring teeth to act as anchors.
What is the difference between All-on-4 and full mouth implants?
All-on-4 uses four implants per arch with angled rear placement to support a complete fixed arch — efficient, cost-effective, and rarely requires bone grafting. Full mouth implants use more implants per arch (typically 6–8) for maximum stability and are suited to patients with better bone density who want the most comprehensive restoration. See our All-on-4 guide for a detailed breakdown.
Are zirconia implants better than titanium?
Neither is universally “better” — they suit different patients. Titanium has decades of clinical research and remains the most proven option. Zirconia is metal-free and tooth-coloured — ideal for patients with metal sensitivities or who want the most aesthetic result at the gumline. Your dentist will recommend the right material at your consultation.
What if I don’t have enough bone for implants?
Several options exist: bone grafting can rebuild the foundation before implant placement; All-on-4’s angled technique often bypasses the need for grafting; and subperiosteal implants sit on top of the bone rather than inside it. A 3D scan at consultation determines which approach is appropriate for your specific bone condition.
How do I know which implant type is right for me?
The right type depends on how many teeth you’re missing, your bone density, your budget, and your restoration goals. The quick reference table at the top of this page is a starting point — but a personalised consultation with 3D imaging at Apple Tree Dental is the only way to get a definitive recommendation for your specific situation.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Implant for Your Smile
Understanding the different types of dental implants is the first step toward making a confident, informed decision about your oral health. Whether you need a single tooth replaced or a complete full-arch restoration, there is an implant solution designed specifically for your situation — and at Apple Tree Dental in London, Ontario, our team will help you find it through honest assessment, 3D imaging, and a transparent treatment plan.