Our Summary

This research paper is about the phenomenon of osseoperception, which is the ability to feel touch through dental implants. The authors reviewed past studies to learn more about osseoperception and to identify factors that could improve this sensory capacity.

They looked at studies from databases like PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science up until June 2021. They included both human and animal studies that looked at sensory capacity or nerve connections after the placement of implants.

After searching the databases, they found 1667 results. Once they removed duplicates and screened titles and abstracts, they ended up with 22 studies to include in their review.

The review found that implants have a lower tactile function compared to natural teeth. However, they also found evidence of brain adaptability following the placement of dental implants, based on studies that used methods such as nerve-evoked potentials and functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Furthermore, they found that immediate implant placement and loading can have a positive impact on nerve regeneration around the implant. However, they didn’t find any other factors that could influence osseoperception.

In conclusion, the review supports the existence of osseoperception in restoring sensory feedback after dental implant surgery. More research is needed to identify factors that could further aid in the integration of oral implants in the body to mimic natural oral function.

FAQs

  1. What is osseoperception and how is it related to dental implants?
  2. What were the key findings of the review regarding osseoperception in dental implant surgery?
  3. What further research is needed to improve the integration of oral implants in the body to mimic natural oral function?

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 reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding certain foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as recommended. By following these guidelines, patients can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and potentially improve their sensory feedback after implant placement.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for dental implant surgery are those who have lost one or more teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, injury, or other reasons. Additionally, candidates for dental implant surgery should have good overall health, adequate bone density in the jaw to support the implant, and healthy gums. Patients who are smokers or have certain medical conditions that may impact healing, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, may not be ideal candidates for dental implant surgery. It is important for patients to consult with their dentist or oral surgeon to determine if they are suitable candidates for dental implant surgery.

Timeline

To summarize, before dental implant surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a dentist, where the treatment plan is discussed, and any necessary preparations are made. The actual surgery involves the placement of the implant into the jawbone, which may require multiple appointments and healing time. After the surgery, the patient goes through a healing period where the implant integrates with the bone (osseointegration). Once the implant has fully healed, the patient receives an abutment and crown to complete the restoration.

After dental implant surgery, the patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication and proper oral hygiene. Over time, the patient will gradually regain normal oral function and aesthetics, with the implant looking and functioning like a natural tooth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years and provide a long-term solution for missing teeth.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about dental implant surgery include:

  1. What is the success rate of dental implant surgery?
  2. How long will the recovery process take?
  3. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with the surgery?
  4. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during or after the procedure?
  5. How long do dental implants typically last?
  6. Will I be able to eat and speak normally after the implants are placed?
  7. What kind of maintenance and care will my dental implants require?
  8. Are there any specific factors in my case that could affect the success of the surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with information about the materials used in the implants?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options that I should consider?

Reference

Authors: Song D, Shujaat S, Politis C, Orhan K, Jacobs R. Journal: J Oral Rehabil. 2022 May;49(5):573-585. doi: 10.1111/joor.13296. Epub 2022 Feb 18. PMID: 34911146