Types of Implant(The subperiosteal implant)

The subperiosteal implant

The subperiosteal implant is usually used when the jawbone has receded to the point where it can no longer support a permanent implant. It means, with very advanced jawbone resorption, there may not be enough bone width or height for the root form or plate form implant. In these cases, the subperiosteal implant may be suggested. The subperiosteal implant is custom made and designed to sit on top of the bone, but it rests under the gums. There are two kinds of methods for the placement.

That is called "dual surgery" method. After application of anesthetic, the jawbone will be exposed and taken an impression or model of the bone using special materials. This model is used by a dental laboratory to carefully create the custom made implant to adjust the patient's jaw. Then, a second procedure is carried out where the jawbone is exposed and the implant placed. The gums are closed with several stitches, and replacement teeth are put into place.

In order to achieve the "single surgery" method, the patient's dentist may order a special CAT scan of the jawbone. Using the CAT scan data and advanced computer modeling techniques, a model of the jawbone is constructed. This model is used by a dental laboratory in order to fabricate the custom subperiosteal implant to fit its jaw. Then a surgical procedure is carried out where the jawbone is exposed and the implant placed. The gums are closed with several stitches and the replacement teeth are put into place.