What are Subperiosteal Dental Implants?
Subperiosteal dental implants are a type of dental implant designed for patients who lack sufficient bone height or density in their jaw to support traditional endosteal implants. Instead of being placed into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone but underneath the gum tissue. A custom-made metal framework is used to support artificial teeth.
Key Features of Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Placement
Above the Jawbone: Unlike traditional implants that are embedded into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are positioned on top of the bone but beneath the gum tissue.
Custom Framework: A metal frame is custom-made to fit the contour of the patient’s jawbone, and posts extend through the gums to hold the prosthetic teeth.
Ideal for Patients with Low Bone Density
No Bone Grafting Needed: Suitable for patients who do not have enough bone height or density and want to avoid bone grafting procedures.
Immediate Function: Often allows for faster restoration of dental function compared to waiting for bone grafts to heal and integrate.
Benefits of Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Suitable for Patients with Significant Bone Loss
Alternative to Bone Grafting: Provides a viable option for patients with severe bone resorption who are not candidates for bone grafting.
Minimally Invasive: Avoids the need for extensive bone augmentation procedures, which can be more invasive and require longer recovery times.
Custom Fit
Tailored Design: The metal framework is custom-designed to fit the unique shape of the patient’s jawbone, ensuring a precise fit and stable support for the prosthetic teeth.
Comfort and Functionality: A custom fit enhances comfort and functionality, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Faster Treatment Timeline
Reduced Waiting Period: Since subperiosteal implants do not require bone grafting and integration, the overall treatment time can be shorter.
Immediate Prosthesis: In some cases, a temporary prosthesis can be attached to the implants soon after surgery, providing immediate aesthetic and functional benefits.
The Subperiosteal Implant Procedure
Initial Consultation and Assessment
Comprehensive Evaluation: A thorough examination, including imaging studies like CT scans or X-rays, is conducted to assess the patient's jawbone structure and determine the suitability for subperiosteal implants.
Personalised Treatment Plan: A customised treatment plan is developed based on the patient's specific needs and dental health.
Surgical Procedure
Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available for patient comfort.
Gum Incision: An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone.
Impression Taking: A detailed impression of the jawbone is taken to create the custom metal framework.
Framework Placement: Once the framework is ready, it is placed over the jawbone and under the gum tissue. The posts of the framework protrude through the gums to hold the prosthetic teeth.
Suturing: The gum tissue is then sutured closed around the posts.
Healing and Recovery
Healing Period: The gums need time to heal around the framework, typically a few weeks.
Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits are necessary to ensure proper healing and integration of the framework with the gum tissue.
Prosthetic Attachment
Prosthesis Placement: Once healing is complete, the final prosthetic teeth are attached to the posts, providing a functional and aesthetic dental restoration.
Subperiosteal dental implants offer an excellent alternative for patients with significant bone loss who are not suitable candidates for traditional dental implants or bone grafting procedures. By using a custom-made metal framework that sits on top of the jawbone, these implants provide a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth, enhancing oral function and aesthetics. If you have been told you lack sufficient bone for conventional implants, subperiosteal implants may be the right solution for you.
