Subperiosteal implants are a type of dental implant used to support dentures in patients who don’t have enough bone in their jaw. Unlike traditional implants (called endosteal implants), which are placed directly into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone. The team at JC Dental Como has put together this guide to help you make an informed decision..
Subperiosteal dental implants are made up of a metal frame (usually titanium) that rests on the bone, with posts that protrude through the gum to hold the denture in place. This design makes this type of implant system a viable option for individuals who don’t want to have bone grafting or prefer a less invasive but stable option to replace missing teeth.
Patients and dentists choose subperiosteal dental implants over conventional endosteal implants for various reasons, including:
When it comes to aesthetics, endosteal and subperiosteal implants look pretty much the same. Both are designed to look just like your natural teeth, bringing back your self-confidence and comfort. But subperiosteal implants do have a few extra advantages over in-bone implants.
The metal framework of these implants is custom-made to fit your jawbone. You’ll get a personal fit that you can hardly feel and that doesn’t place pressure anywhere it shouldn’t.
Compared to bone grafting and drilling into the bone, as with placing an endosteal implant, the procedure for subperiosteal implants is much less invasive. Not only does it take less time, but it also means a much faster recovery period.
Endosteal implants require 3 to 6 months of “osseointegration” when the implant fuses with the bone. This recovery time is not necessary with subperiosteal implants, which drastically cuts down the time from start to finish. You’ll only need a few weeks of healing.
Made from biocompatible materials, subperiosteal implants are designed to last many years with proper care. They are an effective long-term solution for replacing teeth.
By providing a stable foundation for dentures, subperiosteal implants can help prevent further deterioration of the jawbone. This contributes to better overall oral health.
So what’s the final verdict on Invisalign vs braces? Here's a quick comparison.
| Invisalign | Traditional Braces | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Virtually invisible | Quite noticeable |
| Comfort | High level of comfort | Metal ends can cause irritation |
| Removability | Fully removable | Not removable at all |
| Treatment Time | From 6 to 18 months | From 1 to 3 years |
| Cost | Usually more expensive | Less expensive |
Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone, under the gum, so they don’t fuse with the bone. This lack of integration can make them a little less stable and may lead to higher chances of implant failure over time. Patients might experience shifting or movement of the implant, which can affect chewing and overall oral health.
Because subperiosteal implants don’t integrate with the bone, there’s a possibility of bone loss over time. The lack of stimulation that normally happens with endosteal implants might result in the jawbone deteriorating. This can lead to changes in your facial structure and the fit of the implant, possibly causing discomfort and leading to more dental work to get it back in place.
Since subperiosteal implants sit within the gum rather than the bone, there’s a greater risk of infection. The soft tissue is more prone to developing infection if bacteria get into the implant site.
The surgical procedure to place subperiosteal implants may be a little more complicated, even though it’s less invasive. It often needs detailed imaging and moulds of the jawbone to make sure they fit perfectly. This complexity can mean longer surgery times and a slightly higher cost.
According to the available data, subperiosteal implants have lower long-term success rates compared to traditional endosteal implants. Studies have shown that the lack of bone integration and higher risk of complications can reduce the lifespan of these implants.
If you’re considering dental implants, the process begins with a thorough examination and dental implant consultation with a qualified dentist. During this initial visit, your dentist will:
Once your dentist is satisfied that this kind of implant treatment is right for you, they’ll move on to the next step: creating a custom implant for your mouth. This involves:
In some cases, your dentist will use advanced dental implant technology like 3D scanning to create a digital model of the jawbone, for even more accurate implant design and fitting.
The actual placement of subperiosteal implants is performed in a surgical setting. Here’s what typically happens:
This surgery is usually completed in one session, but you’ll need to follow your dentist’s specific aftercare instructions to speed up healing.
After your implant surgery, you’ll need to rest and heal for about 3 to 4 weeks. Once the healing process is complete, the final step is to attach the prosthetic teeth to the implant posts. This involves:
Some patients are better candidates for subperiosteal implants rather than traditional ones.
We’ve broken down who might benefit from these dental implants below:
Subperiosteal implants are particularly helpful for patients who don't have enough bone height or bone density in the jawbone. Traditional implants need a certain amount of bone to anchor securely, but subperiosteal implants rest on top of the bone, so bone height isn’t an issue.
Bone grafting is a common procedure to build up bone mass in the jaw, but not everyone is willing or able to undergo this extra surgery. Subperiosteal implants generally bypass the need for bone grafts, making the whole procedure much faster and less of a toll on the body.
Older adults often experience bone resorption, which can make traditional implants challenging. Subperiosteal implants can be a good solution for elderly patients with decreased bone volume. The less invasive surgery is also a better option, as it’s much less taxing on the body and leaves less room for complications.
Certain health conditions can hinder the healing process after the more invasive endosteal implant procedure. For patients with conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis, or those undergoing chemotherapy, subperiosteal implants would be a safer option.
Patients with certain anatomical considerations, such as very shallow jawbone or irregular bone structure, may find subperiosteal implants more suitable. This is something your dentist will discuss with you when you first go for a consultation.
On average, the cost of a single subperiosteal implant in Australia can range from $3,000 to $6,000. However, it’s important to note that subperiosteal implants can be more expensive than endosteal implants, but the cost varies widely depending on multiple factors.
Proper care for subperiosteal implants is based on a consistent dental hygiene routine. Here are some tips (that you might get from your implant dentist):
If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, contact our team at JC Dental Como today. Whether you’ve got enough bone density for regular implants or would prefer subperiosteal implants, we’re here to help guide you through the implant process.
Subperiosteal implants have a relatively high success rate – around 80 to 90%. This range takes into account patient health, surgical technique, and post-operative care.
Recent advancements in imaging technology and surgical methods have improved the precision of implant placement, leading to better outcomes. However, it’s important to note that success rates can be lower for patients with certain conditions, such as severe bone loss or chronic health issues.
Maintain your Invisalign clear braces by cleaning them regularly with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Toothpaste is not recommended, as it’s usually abrasive. You can also soak them in Invisalign crystals. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly in cool water before wearing them.
Store your aligners in the provided case when you aren't wearing them. Keep them away from heat, so find a safe place to store the case when your aligners are in it.
It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to complement your clean aligners. Poor oral health can cause bacteria to build up on your aligners, so make sure you brush and floss at least twice a day.
Yes, subperiosteal implants can be used in combination with dentures to provide a more stable and comfortable fit. They can support both full and partial dentures, offering improved stability and function.
If you found this article interesting you may also want to read Are There Side Effects of Dental Implants?
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I had a great experience at JC Dental. Dr. Colleen is very gentle, professional, knowledgeable and very informative. Dr. Colleen made me feel comfortable and pain-free through out the whole process. Thank you Dr. Colleen. I would highly recommend this practice!
I went for a checkup, scale and clean. Dr Colleen Ling did an amazing job on my teeth! She is very gentle, caring and very patient.
My dental experience with her was very positive & reassuring. She showed great concern and is ever so lovely.
JJ and Colleen are both gentle, compassionate and efficient. They explain through the procedure to make sure you are aware of the details and the associated fees before you commit.
Dr. Colleen is a highly professional, kind, and patient dentist. She has been taking care of my family members’ teeth for many years
Did my invisalign braces with Dr Colleen. Great results. Would highly recommend!