Our Summary

This research looks at the possibility of placing dental implants through impacted teeth or leftover roots, instead of undertaking invasive extraction surgeries. The researchers combed through four databases for relevant studies and assessed the quality of these studies. They found ten that met their criteria and analyzed them.

The studies involved 44 patients who received 62 dental implants, and these patients were monitored for at least a year. On average, the success rate of these implants was a little over 90%. The success rate was higher (around 98%) when implants were placed through impacted teeth, and lower (around 76%) when they were placed through residual roots.

The study found no surgical or prosthetic complications. The researchers suggest that this method could be a viable treatment option for patients who cannot undergo surgery and orthodontic traction, and those who do not want to undergo more invasive extraction surgery. However, they also recommend being extra careful when placing implants through leftover root fragments, as there could be long-term risks. More research is needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What did the research find about the success rate of dental implants placed through impacted teeth or leftover roots?
  2. What are the potential risks of placing dental implants through leftover root fragments?
  3. Could this method be a viable treatment for patients who cannot undergo traditional surgery and orthodontic traction?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to carefully follow post-operative instructions provided by the dentist or oral surgeon. This can include proper oral hygiene practices, avoiding certain foods, and taking prescribed medications as directed. Following these instructions can help promote proper healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended dental implant surgery include those who have missing teeth due to trauma, decay, or periodontal disease, and are in good overall health. Patients who have adequate bone density and volume in the jaw to support the implant are also good candidates for dental implant surgery. Additionally, patients who are looking for a long-term solution to replace missing teeth and improve their oral health and function are often recommended dental implant surgery.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  1. Patient consults with a dentist to discuss treatment options for missing teeth.
  2. Dentist evaluates the patient’s oral health and determines if they are a candidate for dental implants.
  3. Patient undergoes any necessary preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting or tooth extraction.
  4. Dentist creates a treatment plan and schedules the implant surgery.

After dental implant surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the dental implant surgery, where the implant post is placed in the jawbone.
  2. Patient may experience some discomfort and swelling in the days following surgery.
  3. Over the next few months, the implant post fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
  4. Once the implant has fully healed, the dentist attaches the abutment and crown to complete the restoration.
  5. Patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments to ensure the implant is healing properly and functioning correctly.
  6. Patient enjoys the benefits of a permanent, natural-looking tooth replacement.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Can dental implants be placed through impacted teeth or leftover roots instead of undergoing extraction surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of dental implants placed through impacted teeth versus residual roots?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with placing dental implants through leftover root fragments?
  4. How long do patients need to be monitored after receiving dental implants placed through impacted teeth or leftover roots?
  5. Are there any specific criteria or patient characteristics that make them suitable candidates for this type of dental implant surgery?
  6. How does the cost of dental implants placed through impacted teeth or leftover roots compare to traditional extraction surgery and implant placement?
  7. What long-term outcomes can be expected for patients who receive dental implants through impacted teeth or leftover roots?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options that should be considered before deciding on dental implant surgery through impacted teeth or leftover roots?
  9. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of choosing dental implant surgery through impacted teeth or leftover roots over traditional extraction surgery?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions or precautions that patients should follow after receiving dental implants through impacted teeth or leftover roots?

Reference

Authors: Pérez-González F, Sánchez-Labrador L, Molinero-Mourelle P, Sáez-Alcaide LM, Cortés-Bretón-Brinkmann J, Torres García-Denche J, López-Quiles J, Martínez-González JM. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 Dec;59(10):1120-1129. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.12.018. Epub 2021 Jan 8. PMID: 34503858