Our Summary

This research paper is about the process of integrating dental implants into a patient’s jawbone, also known as osseointegration. The authors argue that success in this field isn’t just about surgical skills, but also understanding how bones work. They highlight a difference between implants that have bonded with the bone (osseointegrated) and those that haven’t (non-osseointegrated).

There are two stages of stability for an implant - the initial mechanical stability when the implant is first placed, and the secondary stability that comes once the implant has bonded with the bone. The quality of the patient’s bone, as well as the length and width of the implant, can all affect the success of the initial placement.

The paper reviews existing research on dental implant osseointegration, aiming to provide dentists with scientific information about the mechanical aspects and limitations of implants and their components during the bonding process, as well as how they behave once they start being used for chewing and other forces following successful bonding.

FAQs

  1. What factors influence the achievement of primary stability in dental implant surgery?
  2. What is the difference between non-osseointegrated and osseointegrated implants?
  3. How do biomechanical parameters and limitations of endosseous implants affect the osseointegration phase?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and successful integration of the implant with the surrounding bone. This may include avoiding hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, maintaining overall oral health and attending regular dental check-ups can help prolong the lifespan of the implant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for dental implant surgery include those who have missing teeth, inadequate bone structure to support traditional dental prosthetics (such as dentures or bridges), and good overall oral health. Additionally, patients who are non-smokers, have good oral hygiene practices, and do not have any uncontrolled medical conditions that may interfere with the healing process are also good candidates for dental implant surgery. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations about the procedure and be committed to following post-operative care instructions to ensure the success of the implant.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  1. Consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if dental implants are the best choice for the patient.
  2. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or CT scans to assess bone density and determine the best placement for the implant.
  3. Pre-operative instructions such as fasting before surgery and avoiding certain medications that may interfere with the procedure.
  4. Placement of the dental implant during a surgical procedure under local anesthesia or sedation.

After dental implant surgery:

  1. Post-operative care instructions including pain management, diet restrictions, and oral hygiene practices.
  2. Healing period of 3-6 months for the implant to integrate with the surrounding bone (osseointegration).
  3. Placement of a temporary crown or restoration during the healing period.
  4. Impressions taken for a permanent crown or restoration once osseointegration is complete.
  5. Final placement of the permanent crown or restoration on the implant.
  6. Follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor the healing process and check the stability of the implant.

Overall, the dental implant process involves careful planning, surgical placement, and a healing period to ensure successful integration and long-term stability of the implant. Regular follow-up visits and proper oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining the health of the implant and surrounding tissues.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of dental implant surgery?
  2. How long does the osseointegration process typically take?
  3. What factors can affect the success of osseointegration?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  5. What are the potential risks and complications associated with dental implant surgery?
  6. How much pain or discomfort can I expect after the surgery, and what pain management options are available?
  7. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, such as eating and brushing my teeth?
  8. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions?
  9. How often will I need to come in for follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. What type of maintenance and care will my dental implants require in the long term?

Reference

Authors: Bedrossian E. Journal: Compend Contin Educ Dent. 2020 Jul/Aug;41(7):e1-e5. PMID: 32687377