Our Summary

This research paper talks about a new method, called the PATZi protocol, developed for planning and carrying out a specific type of dental surgery - the maxillary full-arch implant. The traditional way of doing this surgery, which involves placing four implants in the upper jaw to support a complete set of prosthetic teeth, often faces challenges. These can be due to variations in the quality and quantity of the patient’s bone, or due to the expansion of the maxillary sinus, a hollow space within the bones of the face.

These issues can affect the execution of the original treatment plan, potentially leading to a shortened dental arch (the curve formed by the row of teeth in the mouth) or excessive forces on the implants. The PATZi protocol helps dentists prepare for such unexpected situations and ensure that the planned prosthetic teeth fit perfectly.

The protocol also includes a numbering system for each implant configuration, which enables uniform communication among medical practitioners and makes it easier to prepare for potential future issues. The use of the PATZi protocol can enhance the stability of the implants, improve the distribution of forces, eliminate harmful forces on the implants, and increase the success rate of the prosthetic treatment plan.

FAQs

  1. What is the PATZi protocol in dental implant surgery?
  2. How can the PATZi protocol improve the predictability of a prosthetic treatment plan?
  3. What are the potential issues with the traditional configuration of four maxillary implants?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and success of the implant. This may include avoiding hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments with the dentist. Proper care and maintenance of the implant can help prevent complications and ensure long-term success of the implant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for dental implant surgery include those who have missing teeth, severely damaged teeth, or teeth that cannot be restored with traditional dental treatments. Additionally, patients with adequate bone density and overall good oral health are considered good candidates for dental implants. Patients who have good oral hygiene practices and are committed to maintaining their oral health are also good candidates for dental implant surgery.

Timeline

  • Initial consultation: The patient meets with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the possibility of dental implant surgery. The dentist evaluates the patient’s oral health and determines if they are a good candidate for the procedure.
  • Treatment planning: The dentist creates a treatment plan that outlines the number of implants needed, the location of the implants, and the type of prosthetic that will be used.
  • Pre-operative appointments: The patient may need to undergo additional tests or procedures before the surgery, such as bone grafting or tooth extractions.
  • Dental implant surgery: The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone during a procedure that can take several hours. The patient may be given sedation or anesthesia to ensure their comfort during the surgery.
  • Healing period: The patient will need to wait several months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
  • Prosthetic placement: Once the implants have fully integrated, the dentist will attach the prosthetic teeth to the implants, restoring the patient’s smile and ability to chew and speak properly.
  • Follow-up appointments: The patient will need to attend regular check-ups to ensure the implants are functioning properly and to address any issues that may arise. Overall, the dental implant process can take several months from the initial consultation to the final placement of the prosthetic teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime and provide a natural-looking and functional solution for missing teeth.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of dental implant surgery?
  2. How long does the dental implant surgery procedure take?
  3. What is the recovery process like after dental implant surgery?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  5. What are the potential complications or risks associated with dental implant surgery?
  6. How long do dental implants typically last?
  7. Will I need any additional procedures, such as bone grafting, before the dental implant surgery?
  8. How many implants will be placed for my specific case?
  9. What is the expected timeline for completing the full-arch implant treatment plan?
  10. What post-operative care instructions should I follow to ensure successful healing and integration of the implants?

Reference

Authors: Ponnusamy S, Gonzalez J, Holtzclaw D. Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Implants. 2023 Oct 17;38(5):996-1004. doi: 10.11607/jomi.10153. PMID: 37847841