What is a Custom-Made Implant/Subperiosteal Implant?
Subperiosteal implants are custom-made implants designed specifically for a patient, created with the assistance of 3D imaging technology (CT scans). These implants are made to fit the contour of the patient’s jawbone and are placed under the gum but above the jawbone. This type of implant is ideal for individuals who lack sufficient bone density to support traditional cylindrical implants.
Why Choose Subperiosteal Implants?
Jawbone loss can occur due to various reasons such as tooth extraction, long-term use of dentures, or gum diseases. As a result, traditional cylindrical dental implants often require advanced surgical procedures like block or bone grafting for proper placement. For patients who prefer to avoid these procedures or have time constraints, subperiosteal implants offer a faster and more convenient alternative.
How Long is the Waiting Period for Subperiosteal Implants?
The waiting period for subperiosteal implants is significantly shorter compared to traditional cylindrical implants. Temporary teeth can be placed on the same day as the surgery, and permanent teeth can be completed within approximately one month. This allows patients to regain their teeth shortly after the implant placement procedure.
How is a Subperiosteal Implant Procedure Performed?
The process for subperiosteal implants involves the following steps:
1. Analysis
After an initial examination, a 3D scan (DVT/CT) is taken. Measurements of the patient’s mouth are made, photographs are taken, and the desired tooth shape is determined based on facial features and skin tone. Immediate temporary prosthetics, which will be provided at the end of the operation, are then prepared.
2. Subperiosteal Implant Design
A technical team and oral surgeon use digital technology to design the subperiosteal implant based on the patient’s 3D scan. During the design phase, considerations such as chewing pressure resistance and the implant’s contribution to the aesthetic profile are taken into account. The immediate temporary prosthetic is adapted to connect seamlessly with the implant.
3. Subperiosteal Implant Production
After analysis, the technical team proceeds with implant production. As with cylindrical implants, the material used is titanium, which has a high biocompatibility with body tissues.
4. Subperiosteal Implant Surgery
The surgery is performed by an experienced oral surgeon, and the procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, providing a comfortable experience for the patient. General anesthesia or sedation can also be used, depending on the patient’s preference.
5. Subperiosteal Implant Prosthesis
The fixed temporary prosthetic prepared by the technical team is attached to the implant at the end of the operation, allowing the patient to leave with new teeth on the same day. After 2-3 weeks of soft tissue healing, a permanent prosthetic—either porcelain, zirconium, or acrylic—can be made according to the patient’s preference. During the creation of the permanent teeth, factors such as facial profile, aesthetic expectations, speech anatomy, and tooth shape are reassessed to ensure the ideal design. The entire treatment, including the surgery, is typically completed within 4-5 weeks.
Subperiosteal implants offer a quick, effective solution for individuals with insufficient bone for traditional implants, providing a functional and aesthetic restoration with minimal waiting time.