Subperiosteal implants are a type of dental implant that offers a beneficial solution for individuals with insufficient bone density in their jaw to support traditional implants. They’re alternatives to endosteal implants if a candidate has bone loss or other dental health issues. Subperiosteal implants are custom-made and designed to fit securely onto the jawbone under the gum tissue, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. Below, we’ll go over some of the pros and cons of subperiosteal dental implants so you can determine whether it’s the right dental restoration process for you.
Advantages of Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants provide a practical and efficient solution for individuals looking to restore their smiles with natural-looking and reliable teeth replacements. Along with a restored smile and oral function, there are several other advantages to subperiosteal implants, including:
- Versatile and customizable: These dental implants are custom-designed to fit each patient’s unique oral anatomy, allowing for a precise and tailored fit. The customization results in a more stable and secure implant, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a comfortable fit for the patient.
- No grafting required: Subperiosteal dental implants are placed under the gumline but above the bone. By being placed on top of the bone, they avoid the need for bone grafting procedures, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- Easy care and maintenance: The implants operate just like natural teeth, so they are easy to clean and maintain.
Disadvantages of Subperiosteal Implants
While subperiosteal implants can be a suitable solution in many situations, it is important for patients to be aware of the potential disadvantages associated with this type of implant. Some of the potential drawbacks of this type of dental implant include:
- Complex surgical procedure: Unlike traditional endosteal implants, which are inserted directly into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants involve creating a custom-fitted metal framework that sits on top of the bone. This process can be more invasive and time-consuming, increasing the risk of complications and prolonging the patient’s healing time.
- Bone resorption: Since these implants do not integrate directly with the jawbone like endosteal implants, they may not provide the same level of stability and support. This can lead to bone loss around the implant site, affecting the long-term success and durability of the implant.
- Infection risk: Subperiosteal implants differ from traditional implants in that they are positioned on top of the jawbone but beneath the gum line. This can make these implants susceptible to bacterial infiltration and infection in some cases. When subperiosteal dental implants are placed under the gum tissue, the protective barrier of the gums is compromised, potentially allowing bacteria to enter the implant site that could cause infection. This risk is particularly concerning for individuals with a history of gum disease or poor oral hygiene habits.
- Placement Limitations: Not all patients are good candidates for this type of implant; use cases are typically for patients who don’t have enough bone to support an endosteal dental implant.
- Cost: Subperiosteal implants cost more than other types of implants simply because they require an invasive surgical procedure and custom fabrication.
At 4M Dental Implant Center, it’s important for us to educate our patients about all of their available options for missing teeth. The subperiosteal implant isn’t as commonly used today, considering innovations like zygomatic and pterygoid implants, which are less invasive and have shorter treatment times.
Choosing 4M Dental Implant Center for High-Quality Dental Implants
The process of getting dental implants is a significant investment in both time and money, and it’s crucial to ensure you’re entrusting your oral health to a skilled and experienced professional. As a permanent solution to tooth loss, dental implant procedures require precision and attention to detail.
4M Dental Implant Center is led by a team of trustworthy dental professionals. We’re a comprehensive dental practice with decades of combined experience and multiple locations throughout Southern California and Las Vegas. Our full-service offices can do everything from general and sedation dentistry to cosmetic improvements and implant procedures. We’ll walk you through the best dental solutions for your oral health and discuss whether subperiosteal dental implants would be the best choice for you.
Our licensed professionals have seen and worked with many complex cases. With a focus on using the latest technology and techniques, we’re ready to provide you with durable and natural-looking implants that can significantly improve your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with us today at one of our California locations or our Las Vegas location and restore your confidence with a healthier smile.
