If you considering getting dental implants but you don’t have enough bone quality, eposteal dental implants might be the solution.
Read till the end to find out about their most essential features, requirements, and procedures.
What are Eposteal Dental Implants?
Eposteal, also called subperiosteal, dental implants are a type of implant placed on top of the jawbone, beneath the gumline, to replace one or multiple missing teeth with a crown, bridge, or denture. These implants are usually made out of titanium and used when there’s insufficient bone height to consider a traditional, endosteal implant.
What makes Eposteal Implants Different?
Unlike their conventional counterparts, which are inserted into the jawbone, eposteal implants are custom-made surgical devices placed on top of the jaw. Furthermore, despite having other options in modern dentistry and often considered as an outdated treatment, they still are an excellent option for patients with severe bone loss or when other procedures, like bone grafts, are contraindicated.
When compared to zygomatic implants, which are anchored in the cheekbone, these implants are less invasive but more limited in application. While they’re ideal for specific cases, they’re not for every patient.
Benefits of Eposteal Dental Implants
Enhanced Stability and Support Without Bone Grafting
Eposteal implants serve as a strong foundation for dentures and prosthetic treatments without requiring additional procedures like bone grafting, sinus lifts, or guided bone regeneration. As a result, this alternative can reduce the time and overall treatment price while decreasing certain surgical risks, particularly in patients with systemic conditions.
Reduced Bone Resorption in Non-Load Bearing Areas
As this type of implant technique avoids drilling into the reabsorbed bone, it can help preserve healthy remaining bone tissue, restoring severely atrophic jaws with minor risks.
Suitable for Patients with Minimal Bone Density
Subperiosteal implants can represent a second chance and a lifetime opportunity for those who may not be suitable candidates for traditional dental implants.
They’re also a great alternative for patients with failed bone regeneration procedures or with adverse medical conditions that may compromise osseointegration.
Considerations Before Getting Eposteal Dental Implants
The specialist will assess your overall health and evaluate your oral condition by performing multiple tests, like CT scans, blood tests, X-rays, and photographs. Also, your dentist will review your medical records to find any systemic condition that may hinder healing, such as diabetes or osteoporosis.
Potential Risks and Complications
Just like any other surgery, eposteal implant placement has some risks associated. While these possible complications are rare and highly uncommon, they may include infection, implant exposure, or mobility in the final prosthesis.
On the other hand, as these implants rely on soft tissue support above the bone, they typically require careful and proper maintenance to prevent post-placement complications.
Who is a Good Candidate for Eposteal Implants?
Eposteal implants are usually used in patients with inadequate bone height who cannot undergo grafting procedures. It is also a great solution for heavy smokers, patients with certain uncontrolled systemic conditions, or other circumstances that may hinder traditional endosteal treatments.
Surgical Process and Recovery
Just as with any other implant procedure, this type of implant involves two main stages: a surgical appointment under general or local anesthesia to place the metal framework and a second visit to place the prosthesis once the area is healed. The process also requires placing a small connective device, called an abutment, that connects the framework and the denture or bridge.
Post-Surgical Care and Recovery Timeline
After having the final prosthesis installed and functional, you’ll need to follow several dietary recommendations, including:
- A soft-food diet for the first days or weeks.
- Avoid or decrease smoking.
- Strict oral hygiene with specialized equipment that includes a specialized toothbrush, mouthwash, and dental floss.
- Attend regular follow-ups to monitor the healing process and gum health.
Finally, keep in mind that a complete recovery can take several weeks. Also, you might require additional measures depending on your specific conditions and health state.
FAQs
Q. Are Eposteal Implants Still Used Today?
Yes! While some may consider these artificial teeth outdated in modern dentistry, their use is still applicable to determined cases. However, some specialists might opt for other types of implants such as zygomatic or grafting procedures.
Q. Is the Procedure Painful?
Although most patients report mild to moderate discomfort after the surgery, most procedures resolve rapidly and positively in just a few days. Also, the procedure is done under local or general anesthesia, making the entire procedure painless.
Q. Can I Eat Normally with These Implants?
Sure! Once healed, these implants restore chewing ability and rehabilitate any aesthetic limitations that may show up after severe bone loss. Yet, your dentist will probably recommend avoiding particularly hard foods and maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits.
Q. How long do eposteal implants last?
With the appropriate care and maintenance at home—including regular dental check-ups—, these eposteal implants can last many years. Typically, their lifetime ranges from 10 to 15 years with minor adjustments to the abutment or prosthetic treatment. However, their longevity directly depends on your oral hygiene, overall health, and harmful habits like smoking.
Q. Are eposteal implants covered by insurance?
The exact coverage of dental implants varies from one company to another. Some plans may partially cover the procedure if it’s deemed medically necessary. However, you should always check with your provider to explore other financing and payment options.
Conclusion and Final Considerations
Eposteal implants are still a viable solution for individuals with severe bone loss who cannot undergo conventional implant procedures. While they have their limitations, they offer a stable, graft-free solution with excellent functional and esthetic results.
The Next Step: Consultation and Evaluation
If you’re considering getting dental implants and are curious about whether eposteal implants are the correct option for you, the next step is to schedule a consultation with your specialist—prosthodontist or oral surgeon—to clarify all your questions and get the smile you want.
