Positive results for implant dentistry

SHOULD a person’s teeth be saved at all costs? Over the last decade, the answer has shifted from yes to no in favor of replacing diseased and damaged teeth with implants. But treatment of patients with periodontitis, inflammatory disease of ligaments and bones supporting teeth, remains controversial because artificial tooth roots are more likely to fail.

Definitive restorations in place
An article in the current issue of the Journal of Oral Implantology  looks at long-term treatment for a patient with severe periodontal damage. The authors anticipate that the higher risk of implant failure in this patient will be offset by coating the implants with a rough, oxidized surface called TiUnite and by emphasizing the need for diligent oral hygiene. They also expect that by using overdenture prostheses instead of conventional removable dentures, they will improve stability and function—and thus patient satisfaction.

Overall, increased use of implants has improved eating comfort and resulted in few complications after the surgery. However, pressure on implants is suspected to speed up loss of dense cortical bone in the jaw. Research has shown the TiUnite material stimulates bone growth, leading to faster fusion of implants and surrounding jawbone.

Figure 12. Definitive restorations in place. Figure 13. Panoramic radiograph at prosthesis delivery. Figure 14. Radiographs after 12 years in function. Figure 15. (a) Clinical photograph after 12 years in function (maxilla). (b) Clinical photograph after 12 years in function (mandible). (doi:New Balance Laufschuhe und Bekleidung online kaufen