The lack of bone in the jaw or maxilla is not a definitive sentence that prevents dental implants. Although traditionally considered a major limitation, today implantology has evolved sufficiently to offer safe and effective solutions even in these cases. From our dental clinic in Malaga, we know that thanks to technical advances and clinical experience today, treatment can be adapted to the specific conditions of the patient.
Implants with little bone
Dental implants need a minimum volume of bone to integrate properly and remain stable. However, many patients who have lost teeth years ago show significant bone resorption, especially if they did not wear a prosthesis that maintained the structure of the bone. This is where specialized techniques for placing implants with little bone come into play, a common clinical situation in dental offices.
Thanks to digital planning, the use of 3D imaging and new surgical techniques, it is possible to make an accurate diagnosis to determine whether there is enough bone base and, if not, what options are available for reconstructing or adapting treatment. Not all cases require grafting, as shorter or specially designed implants that are fixed in areas with better bone density can also be used.
How do I know if I am suitable for an implant with bone loss?
The first step is always a personalized clinical evaluation. The quantity of bone are analysed by imaging tests such as computed tomography. This assessment allows us to define whether it is feasible to place an implant directly, if it will be necessary to regenerate the bone or if solutions such as implants in strategic areas with better bone support should be chosen.
Age, general health, smoking or systemic diseases also influence treatment choices. However, most patients with poor bone support can be treated safely by going to a clinic that specializes in this type of case.
Alternatives for patients with low bone
When the bone volume is insufficient, the dentist can propose different strategies. One option is to perform a maxillary sinus lift, very common in the posterior superior arch. Guided bone regeneration techniques can also be applied, where biomaterials are used to stimulate bone growth. These procedures increase the base available for the implant to have the necessary anchorage.
In addition to these techniques, there are less invasive solutions. Zygomatic implants, for example, are anchored to the zygomatic bone (cheek), which prevents grafting in patients with severe upper maxillary bone loss. On the other hand, ultra-short or angled implants can make better use of the remaining bone without adding volume.
How is the recovery of an implant with little bone?
Recovery after the placement of a low-bone implant may be somewhat more delicate than in cases with good bone structure, especially if an additional procedure such as a bone graft or maxillary sinus lift has been performed. After surgery, it is normal to experience mild swelling, discomfort when chewing or tenderness in the treated area. That is why a more concrete set of guidelines must be followed:
- Avoid pressure on the surgical area: do not chew directly on the implant during the first few weeks.
- Follow strict oral hygiene: gently clean the area, use chlorhexidine mouthwashes if your dentist tells you to and avoid plaque build-up is essential to prevent infection.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol: tobacco and alcohol directly interfere with tissue healing and implant osteointegration, increasing the risk of failure.
At Clínica Gross Dental, we have a team of experts in implantology and regenerative techniques, with extensive experience in complex cases such as implants in patients with low bone. If you want more information about the different services we can offer, do not wait any longer and contact us.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.