Can Dental Implants Be Done with Severe Alveolar Bone Loss? - Dentistry

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If the alveolar bone has severely atrophied, can dental implants be performed at your hospital in Hsinchu? Thank you!

Lurén, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/19

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry


Hello: Due to the holiday, we will respond after Dr.
Wu Jin-jun returns to work on Monday.
We apologize for any inconvenience, thank you! Hello: Not necessarily! If the situation is very severe and cannot be restored, then there is nothing that can be done.
Wu Jin-jun, Director of Dentistry, Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, May 23, 2005.

Reply Date: 2005/05/19

More Info


When it comes to dental implants in cases of severe alveolar bone loss, the situation can be quite complex. Alveolar bone loss can occur due to various reasons, including periodontal disease, trauma, or the absence of teeth over an extended period. This loss can significantly affect the ability to place dental implants, as sufficient bone is necessary to support the implant securely.

In cases of severe bone loss, there are several options available, but they often require advanced techniques and careful planning. Here are some potential approaches:
1. Bone Grafting: This is one of the most common solutions for addressing severe bone loss. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to the area where the implant will be placed. This can be done using autogenous bone (bone taken from another site in your body), allografts (donor bone), or synthetic bone materials. The grafted bone will need time to integrate with your existing bone before the implant can be placed, which can take several months.

2. Sinus Lift: If the bone loss is in the upper jaw, particularly in the area of the molars, a sinus lift may be necessary. This procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone graft material to increase the bone height in the sinus area, allowing for the placement of implants.

3. Zygomatic Implants: In cases of extreme bone loss in the upper jaw, zygomatic implants can be an option. These implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) rather than the alveolar bone, providing a stable foundation for the prosthesis.

4. Immediate Implants: In some cases, if there is enough bone present at the time of tooth extraction, immediate implants can be placed. However, this is typically not an option for patients with significant bone loss.

5. Implant-Supported Dentures: If multiple teeth are missing and there is insufficient bone for individual implants, implant-supported dentures can be a viable alternative. This involves placing a few implants to support a full or partial denture, providing better stability than traditional dentures.

6. Consultation with Specialists: It is crucial to consult with a dental specialist, such as a periodontist or oral surgeon, who can evaluate your specific situation through imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. They can provide a tailored treatment plan based on the extent of your bone loss and overall oral health.

In your case, if you are considering dental implants at a facility like the one in Hsinchu, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation. The dental team will assess the quality and quantity of your alveolar bone and discuss the best options available for you. They may also discuss the potential need for bone grafting or other procedures to prepare your jaw for implants.

In summary, while severe alveolar bone loss presents challenges for dental implant placement, various techniques and strategies can be employed to achieve successful outcomes. It is essential to work closely with your dental care provider to explore all available options and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your needs.

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