Table of Contents
TL;DR
- A subperiosteal implant is a metal frame that replaces missing teeth and is placed on the jawbone under the gums.
- It is usually recommended for patients with a weak or thin jawbone or older patients with other health issues, where surgery is risky.
- A subperiosteal implant is an excellent alternative to an endosteal implant since it offers benefits such as:
- They are placed on the jawbone and thus used even in patients with weak bone
- Do not require any complex surgery
- Heals faster and quickly
- Lasts for 10 to 15 years or more
- Improves oral function like chewing, speaking, and smiling
- Improves appearance and boosts confidence
- A subperiosteal implant procedure involves the following steps:
- Initial consultation and examination
- Implant creation
- Surgical placement
- Healing and recovery
- Final restoration with artificial teeth
- You can improve the durability of subperiosteal implants through immediate post-surgery care, daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental visits.
- A subperiosteal implant typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000 per implant.
Subperiosteal Implants: An Overview
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and give you a natural-looking smile. But not everyone can get traditional implants because they need strong jawbone support. For those with weak or thin jawbones, a subperiosteal implant is a good choice. This special implant rests on top of the jawbone, under the gums, so there is no need for bone grafting. It helps bring back the ability to chew, speak, and smile comfortably. The implant fits accurately and uses strong materials for lasting results.
In this article, we will explain everything about a subperiosteal implant, who can get them, their benefits, how the procedure works, and tips for taking care of them. This can help you decide if a subperiosteal implant is the right option for restoring your smile and oral health.
How Subperiosteal Implants Differ from Traditional (Endosteal) Implants
A subperiosteal implant is placed on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum. Whereas traditional endosteal implants are inserted directly into the jawbone. A subperiosteal implant suits patients with poor bone density or those who avoid bone grafting. They involve less complex surgery
and usually heal faster. While endosteal implants provide stronger long-term support, subperiosteal implants remain a good choice for those who cannot have traditional implants.
When Are Subperiosteal Implants Recommended?
Our experts at Brooklyn Blvd Dental suggest a subperiosteal implant when:
- The patient has very little jawbone remaining, often due to long-term tooth loss or bone-related conditions.
- Traditional implants are not an option because there is insufficient bone to support them.
- Patients prefer to avoid bone grafting, which can be a lengthy and complex procedure.
- Health conditions or age make extensive surgery risky.
- A quicker restoration of function and smile is desired, without long healing times.
- Loose or ill-fitting dentures need stabilisation to improve comfort and usability.
Benefits of Subperiosteal Implants
A subperiosteal implant offers the following benefits:
- No bone grafting needed: These implants do not require extra bone surgery, so the process is faster and easier.
- Good for weak or thin jawbones: They work well even if your jawbone is not strong enough for regular implants.
- Custom fit: The metal frame is made just for your jaw, so it fits perfectly and feels comfortable.
- Strong and stable: The implant stays firmly in place, so your new teeth do not move or feel loose.
- Can replace one or many teeth: You can use these implants to replace a tooth, several teeth, or even a whole row of teeth.
- Easy to clean: You can care for them just like your normal teeth by brushing and flossing.
- Faster healing and less pain: The surgery is less invasive, so you heal quickly and feel less swelling or discomfort.
- Long-lasting: These implants are built to last a long time with good care.
Step-by-Step Subperiosteal Implant Procedure
A subperiosteal implant involves the following procedure:
Step 1: Consultation and Examination
- The dentist will first examine your oral cavity and general health.
- They will take X-rays and scans to check your jawbone thickness and shape.
- These images show where there is enough bone to fit the implant frame.
- The dentist then sends the information to a lab to make a custom metal frame.
2: Making the Implant Frame
- In the lab, a special metal frame is created to match your jaw.
- This frame has small posts that will stick out through the gums to hold the artificial teeth later.
- The frame is designed to fit the jawbone without causing pain or pressure.
3: Fixing the Frame
- The dentist first numbs your mouth by giving local anesthesia.
- Then, a small cut (incision) is made in the gum.
- The frame is placed on the jawbone, under the gum.
- The dentist checks the fit of the frame accordingly.
4: Stitching and Healing
- Once the frame is in position, the dentist stitches the gums back around it, leaving the posts above the gumline.
- Over the next few weeks, the gums heal around the frame, keeping it firm.
5: Attaching Artificial Teeth
- Once the gums heal, artificial teeth are fixed to the posts.
- These new teeth look and work like real ones, letting you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Subperiosteal implants can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. To extend the life of your implant, follow these tips:
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
- After surgery, you may notice some swelling and mild pain. Use cold packs on your face to reduce swelling.
- For at least one week, eat only soft foods. Avoid hot, spicy, hard, or crunchy foods that may irritate the area.
- Follow your dentist’s advice on medications, and avoid smoking, which can slow down healing.
Daily Oral Care
- Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing with a soft toothbrush.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Floss carefully around the implant to prevent plaque accumulation and infection.
Regular Dental Visits
- Schedule routine check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor gum health and implant stability.
- Professional cleanings are essential to remove plaque and tartar around the implant, which your toothbrush may miss.
- Report any discomfort, swelling, or unusual mobility immediately, even between scheduled visits.
The Bottom Line
A subperiosteal implant replaces one or more missing teeth for patients with insufficient jawbone density. These custom-made metal frames are placed on the jawbone, under the gums, to support artificial teeth. The procedure is less complex, avoiding the need for surgery. Benefits include improved stability, comfort, and the ability to restore function and appearance.
At Brooklyn Blvd Dental, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to deliver high-quality dental implants. Our experienced team treats each patient with personal attention, offering comfort and good results. As a trusted dentist in Brooklyn Center, we offer affordable subperiosteal implants according to your oral needs. Choose Brooklyn Blvd Dental for expert care and a friendly environment to restore your smile and oral health.
To book your appointment, visit us at 5831 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Center, MN 55429, or call us at (763) 533-8669!
FAQs
Are subperiosteal implants permanent?
A subperiosteal implant may be permanent, lasting for 10 to 15 years or more. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, they offer long-term solutions for missing teeth. However, they may need replacement depending on oral health.
What is the success rate of subperiosteal implants compared to traditional implants?
Subperiosteal implants have a slightly lower success rate than traditional implants. Traditional ones offer a 95% success rate, while subperiosteal implants offer 85%.
Can subperiosteal implants support full-mouth restorations?
Yes, subperiosteal implants can support full-mouth restorations. They are a good option for people with weak jawbones and can hold many teeth securely for a natural smile.
How soon after tooth loss can you get a subperiosteal implant?
You can get a subperiosteal implant soon after tooth loss, usually after a healing period of a few weeks. This allows the gums and bones to be ready for the implant, which enables the implant to fit properly.
What is the average cost of subperiosteal implants?
The average cost of a subperiosteal implant ranges between $1,500 and $5,000 per implant. The cost varies depending on the bone health, the number of implants needed, the clinic location, and the dentist’s experience.
