Dental implants have changed the way we think about replacing missing teeth and provide patients with natural-looking and long-lasting results. Subperiosteal implants are specifically designed for patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone and also reduce the need for a second surgery to recover functions before implantation, such as bone grafts.
What exactly are these implants, and how are they used?
Let’s understand.
Understanding Subperiosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are fixed directly into the jawbone, whereas subperiosteal implants rest on top of the jawbone but below the gum line. These implants are custom-made for the patient’s jaw and sometimes feature a metal framework. After they are in place, they act as a base upon which artificial teeth can be screwed.
Subperiosteal implants are especially helpful in certain clinical situations such as poor bone quality or quantity. They may not be ideal for everyone, but they are certainly a useful and dependable option in some patients.
Indications for Subperiosteal Implants
1. Insufficient Jawbone Height
Some patients suffer severe bone loss due to periodontal disease, a large number of years without teeth, or trauma. There are drawbacks with conventional implants, which require contact with sufficient bone for successful integration. Subperiosteal implants are ideal here since there is no need for such massive bone grafts.
2. Patients Unsuitable for Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a labor-intensive and expensive procedure, sometimes contraindicated medicinally. Patients with a generalized condition like osteoporosis or diabetes might not be suitable for grafting. With sores or other acute issues, subperiosteal implants can prevent those from happening.
3. Edentulous Patients
Bone loss in the jaw is especially prevalent for patients who have already been without teeth for a long time. Subperiosteal Implant. They aim to rehabilitate the esthetics and function of teeth without preoperative bone augmentation.
4. Anatomical Limitations
Some parts of the jaw have certain anatomical limitations, like near the sinuses or nerve canals, due to which positioning traditional implants may be dangerous. Subperiosteal implants can be designed to follow these variations safely.
5. Patients Seeking Faster Solutions
Subperiosteal implants are directly attached to the bone and have a tendency to reduce treatment time, particularly where bone grafting and graft healing are necessary. For the patient looking to get back in action sooner, it may be a clear benefit.
6. Support for Dentures
Subperiosteal implants are also beneficial to patients who have ill-suited or loose dentures as they can keep them in place, providing these patients with the confidence of being able to eat and an overall increased comfort level.
Benefits of Subperiosteal Implants
- There is no need for extensive bone grafting.
- Customized fit allows for a better fit with the jaw structure.
- They can restore both function and aesthetics even when significant bone loss has occurred.
- Prosthetic teeth or dentures, can be more firmly anchored by this process. They offer greater stability
Things to Consider
Although it is seen as an important alternative to bone grafting, subperiosteal implants nevertheless have their shortcomings. Good planning, accurate imagery, and working with experienced oral surgeons are indispensable. Postoperative treatment is a key factor in long-term success.
Endnote
Surgically placed subperiosteal implants are an option for people who can’t wear conventional dentures and who have minimal bone height, along with other medical factors. They do provide better stability and function as well as a confidence boost that many people who are looking for a permanent tooth replacement may be looking for.
If you are interested in finding out if subperiosteal implants may be an option for you, please contact Sherman Oaks Smile Studio to make an appointment. The professional staff will be able to evaluate your requirements and advise on what is right for a toothy grin that is good, safe.
FAQs
1. Are subperiosteal implants painful?
The procedure is carried out under a general or local anesthetic, and the patient experiences very little discomfort at the time of surgery, and only slight discomfort during recuperation.
2. What is the longevity of subperiosteal implants?
Subperiosteal implants can last 10 years or more, though proper dental hygiene of brushing teeth twice a day and flossing daily, and regular check-up visits every 5–6 months are recommended to maintain them.
3. Who is not a candidate for subperiosteal implants?
Persons with active infections, individuals with a weak immune system, serious systemic diseases, or insufficient healthy gum to hold the implant may not be candidates for this type of implant.
4. How soon can I get my teeth after implantation?
Artificial teeth are attached to the implants and can be incorporated in most cases a few weeks after they are placed, while healing and bone density are still checked. This is a faster healing time than graft-dependent restores.
5. Are subperiosteal implants covered by insurance plans?
Coverage varies by provider. For a lot of dental insurances, subperiosteal implants are considered elective or specialized treatment, so patients should inquire with their insurance company before getting this procedure.