What type of implant is not placed directly into the bone?

Subperiosteal implants are a type of dental implant that are not placed directly into the bone. Instead, they are positioned on top of the jawbone but underneath the gum tissue. This type of implant consists of a metal framework that is fitted to the shape of the jawbone and allows for the attachment of dental prosthetics.

The placement of subperiosteal implants may be advantageous in cases where there is insufficient bone density for an endosteal implant, as they can provide an alternative solution that doesn't require extensive bone grafting procedures. The framework is often secured to the bone with screws or sometimes relies on the support of the surrounding gum tissue, distinguishing them significantly from endosteal implants, which are placed directly into the bone, and transosteal implants that pass through the bone.

Furthermore, cortical implants, which refer to implants placed into the cortical bone layer, are also inserted directly into the bone. Therefore, understanding the functional placement of each type of implant helps clarify the distinctive nature of subperiosteal implants in the context of implant dentistry.