For individuals who have lost teeth in some way-whether they are in their 30s or 60s-dental implants go a long way toward rebuilding any lost confidence by installing safe replacements. These implants, made with titanium, are inserted beneath gum tissue and into the jaw bone, providing artificial teeth with an anchor.
The dental implant market, consisting of subperiosteal, endosteal, and transosteal implants, has been growing globally, in part due to the elderly population increasing with every new year. Interestingly, of these dental implant types, transosteal implants have become largely unpopular in the U.S., and it’s crucial for potential implant candidates that they know why.
How They Work
Transosteal implants are only inserted into the lower jaw, with a U-shaped metal frame or pins being placed through the alveolar socket as well as the bone. This is followed by the teeth being positioned on top.
If metal pins are utilized, they’re stabilized using a metal plate that is located on the jaw’s base, creating the U-shape required for stability. The name “transosteal,” which literally means “through the bone,” differentiates this implant from endosteal (inserted within bone) and subperiosteal (on top of bone).
Why Transosteal Implants Are Unpopular
Being introduced initially in 1953, two models for the metal plate-based transosteal implants were available. However, since their introduction, it’s been discovered that transosteal implants are less successful in the long run and produce too many complications, which is why most dentists no longer recommend them. Implants are judged by an implant success rate, which is based on specific criteria for an implant’s performance:
· Implant does not move more than one millimeter.
· Patient lost less than 30 percent of the bone’s height.
· No indications exist of damage or infection to other teeth or surrounding tissue.
· Implant works well for at least five years.
Some of the complications patients can experience with transosteal implants include implant site infection, gingival hyperplasia, and losing the crestal bone, which supports teeth. As well, the process causes patients a good deal of pain and could result in scarring on the area operated upon.
Current Patients
For patients who currently have transosteal implants, they should seek out a professional evaluation of their implant’s success. If those patients have no issues, the best course of action is to work toward or continue maintaining a strong oral health care routine, which should include brushing twice daily, flossing once per a day, and even using an ADA approved mouthwash for extra protection against bacteria and plaque.
