Introduction

Subperiosteal implants are a state-of-the-art technique in contemporary dentistry specifically tailored for patients who cannot avail themselves of regular dental implants due to insufficient bone density or height. Although the regular endosteal implants are seated on the jaw bone, subperiosteal implants are anchored above the bone but beneath the gum membrane, providing a secure, stable, and long-lasting base for dental prosthetics.

What Is a Subperiosteal Implant?

Subperiosteal implant is one of the specially made metal frames that are placed right on top of the jawbone underneath the gums. Eventually, the frame gets covered with gum tissue, which holds it securely in place. This setup does away with the ideal depth of bone, and thus it is of great assistance in those who have extensive bone resorption.

These implants are usually biocompatible materials like titanium, easily tolerated by the body tissues, thereby minimizing the risk of rejection or infection.

Ideal Candidates for Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are best for:
Patients whose bone loss is very extensive to be conducive to bone grafting.
Patients that cannot be subjected to full reconstructive surgery.
Patients with extremely thin jawbone ridges.
Patients who require a quicker option than normal implants.

They are placed most commonly in the upper and lower jaws, but mainly they are placed in the lower jaw, where there is bone loss due to long-term teeth loss.

Subperiosteal Implant Design and Structure

A subperiosteal implant consists of three primary parts:

The Framework – Metal framework resting on top of the jawbone.

Posts (or Abutments) – Projections which rise up through the gum and act as artificial tooth anchors.

Prosthetic Teeth – Crowns, bridges, or dentures that are cemented on top of abutments.

It is created with high-resolution imaging technology like CT scans and digital impressions to fit perfectly for every patient.

The Subperiosteal Implant Procedure

1. Diagnostic Imaging and Planning
The procedure starts with advanced 3D imaging to map the jawbone and gum lines. It helps the implant fit perfectly and securely.

2. Framework Fabrication
A CAD/CAM system through scans generates the titanium structure tailored to the patient’s anatomy.

3. Surgical Installation
It does a small cut to the gum, allowing exposure of the jawbone.

The tailored structure is mounted over the bone.

The feedbacks bulge through the gum to hold the prosthetic teeth.
4. Healing Period
Gums cover more than the structure, holding it in place. Healing will be 4–6 weeks, a fraction of time for conventional implant procedures with months for osseointegration.

5. Prosthetic Attachment
The abutments are connected to the final dental prosthesis after healing, returning full function and cosmetics.

Subperiosteal Implant Benefits

No Bone Grafting Necessary – Suitable for patients with low bone height.

Custom Fit – Created specifically to the patient’s jaw structure.

Shorter Treatment Time – Recovers faster than other standard implants.

Stable and Durable – Offers great support for repeated prosthetic replacements.

Better Aesthetics and Function – Preserves natural-looking teeth and regained chewing function.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, subperiosteal implants carry some risk:

• Surgical infection in the region.
• Recession of gum over the implant.
• Relaxation of adjacent tissues with age.
• Peri-implantitis or inflammation.
• Metal allergy (rare due to high biocompatibility of titanium).

Regular post-operative treatment and bi-yearly visits to the dentist reduce the risk significantly.

Post-Operative Care and Maintenance

For maximum strength in subperiosteal implants, do the following:

• Maintain good oral hygiene and brush teeth at least twice a day, and floss.
• Employ antibacterial mouthwashes in order to avoid infection.
• Steer clear of hard foods or sticky foods during healing.
• Visit the dentist every 6 months’ interval.
• Do not smoke because healing is gradual and failure is likely.

Longevity and Success Rate

Subperiosteal implants under good care would survive 10–15 years and beyond. Improvements in digital design and surgery have raised the success rate to more than 90%.

Success of long-term use is primarily dependent on the patient’s oral hygiene, general health, and follow-up.

Cost of Subperiosteal Implants

The cost is determined by:
Complexity of the procedure.

• Material used.
• Geographical location.
• Skill of the surgeon.

Subperiosteal , on average, will be anything from $5,000 to $15,000 per arch and are thus less expensive compared to bone grafting with endosteal implants.

Most Recent Advances in Subperiosteal Implant Technology

Subperiosteal implants have become much more reliable due to the most recent advances:

• 3D Printing – Facilitates precise customization and decreased production time.
• Laser-Assisted Surgery – Reduces blood loss and recovery time.
• Computer-Aided Implant Positioning – Provides greater accuracy and fit.
• Excellence Coatings – Allow rapid tissue integration and decreased risk of infection.

Why Subperiosteal Implants?

Subperiosteal implant are the only viable solution for patients with significant bone loss and cannot be made candidates for a bone transplant. Subperiosteal implants are an instant, comprehensive solution that is predictable and rewarding. They ensure complete dental function, facial aesthetic, and overall quality of life.