So you have reached the conclusion that you need dental implants. But what happens when you find out that your jawbone is too degenerated for the procedure? The alternatives, dentures or bone grafting, are not as satisfying as a fresh set of implants and can discourage patients from having any work done at all. This is because both dentures and bone grafting come with their own issues that make them somewhat counterintuitive for fixing the problem in the long run. Fortunately, this conundrum is a thing of the past, largely because dental advancements have led to The
No Bones Treatment protocol.
A Brief Description of the Protocol
The procedure involves long titanium implants being installed into the jawbone in order to reach sturdy bone beneath, where they can adequately secure themselves (in the dental world, this is known as osseointegration). Even better, the procedure is form-fitted to the contours of the patient’s mouth, meaning they will have a pleasant and viable smile for years to come.
The Nitty Gritty
Before any surgery, the dentist authorizes a CT scan that will produce a 3D image of the jawbone. This image is then utilized for the installation of the implants. As they are placed, ensure that your dentist seats them comfortably. One of the problems that could occur here is that the implants may still be inadequate for reaching viable bone. Should this be the case, the dentist might opt to place them in the cheekbone. If you are considering this procedure, consult with your dentist regarding which location is best for you.
Sessions and Specifics
Most dentists can perform the No Bones Treatment in as little as four sessions. However, keep in mind that the amount of time is entirely dependent on the severity of the bone loss. The first session is where the dentist examines the mouth to make a diagnosis and determine whether the procedure is the right solution. After the diagnosis, the dentist will install the implants in the patient’s gums or cheekbones. Once the screws are placed, the dentist installs temporary teeth. The next step is to wait for approximately three months so the screws can properly set and osseointegration can occur. After this, the dentist will take impressions that are subsequently given to a lab. The lab then produces a permanent set of teeth and gives them back to the dentist. Once the dentist has the teeth, the patient can return for placement.