Pterygoid Implant and Cases Where Implantation Is Advised

Among modern tooth restoration methods, pterygoid implants are gaining attention for their strong stability and long lifespan. This is an ideal solution for individuals who have lost teeth but do not have sufficient jawbone for conventional implants. The following article will provide a deeper understanding of this method, its advantages, and key considerations. Let's explore more with The East Rose Dental Clinic!

Understanding Pterygoid Implant

A pterygoid implant is an advanced implantation technique in which the implant post is placed in the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone, located behind the maxilla. This technique is an ideal solution for patients with posterior maxillary tooth loss and severe bone resorption, as it helps avoid the need for complex bone grafting or sinus lift procedures.

Compared to conventional implants, pterygoid implants are placed at an angle of 45°–55° to optimise stability. With a curved or contoured design, the implant post anchors securely into high-density bone, enhancing osseointegration and ensuring long-term prosthetic success. This method is particularly beneficial for full-arch maxillary restorations, enabling rapid functional recovery without the extended waiting period typically required for bone grafting.

Candidates for Pterygoid Implant

Pterygoid implant is an advanced solution for restoring teeth in patients with severe jawbone resorption. However, this method is not applicable in all cases. Depending on the individual situation, the dentist will prescribe the most suitable type of implant for each patient. The dentist may recommend a pterygoid implant as part of the treatment process in the specific cases listed below.

Full Upper Jaw Tooth Loss with Insufficient Bone

When teeth are missing for an extended period, the jawbone gradually resorbs due to the lack of stimulation from tooth roots. As a result, many patients are not suitable candidates for traditional implants because the bone is no longer capable of supporting implant posts.
Typically, to address this issue, patients must undergo bone grafting before implant placement; however, this procedure is time-consuming and carries potential risks. Pterygoid implants are a solution because they can be angled to securely attach to the pterygoid bone, which has a lot of bone density and not much bone loss. This ensures enhanced stability and excellent load-bearing capacity, even in cases of full-arch maxillary tooth loss.

Severe Chronic Health Conditions

Some patients with compromised health or chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, or impaired wound healing may face higher risks and reduced success rates with bone grafting. Additionally, the recovery period after bone grafting can range from 6 months to a year, significantly delaying the tooth restoration process.
In such cases, pterygoid implants provide an optimal solution by enabling immediate implant placement without the need for bone grafting. This approach ensures high durability and long-term stability for prosthetic teeth.

Sinus Lift Not Feasible or Not Recommended

A sinus lift might not be a viable option or a recommended treatment in some cases. If the maxillary sinus is too large, the sinus floor is too thin, or the patient has a history of chronic sinusitis, a sinus lift can pose risks such as infection, prolonged bleeding, or failure of bone integration.
Additionally, for patients seeking a faster restoration process, a sinus lift can significantly prolong treatment time, leading to inconvenience. So, pterygoid implants are the best alternative because they can be put in without affecting the maxillary sinus.

The need for fast and long-lasting tooth restoration

Pterygoid implants are a great option for people who need to replace a tooth right away but don't want to go through the long healing process of bone grafting. This technique enables implant placement and temporary tooth attachment within just 24to48 hours post-surgery, allowing patients to regain both function and aesthetics rapidly.
Furthermore, with a clinically proven success rate of 96–98% over 5–10 years, pterygoid implants are a highly reliable and durable option for long-term tooth replacement.

Why Choose Pterygoid Implant?

Here are the key reasons why pterygoid implants are an excellent choice:

• No Bone Grafting Required, Shortened Treatment Time: The pterygoid implant is anchored into the pterygoid bone instead of the maxilla, eliminating the need for bone grafting and reducing the treatment duration by 6 to 12 months. Patients can receive a temporary prosthesis within 24 to 48 hours after implant placement.
• Exceptional Durability and Longevity: Made from high-quality titanium with a robust design, pterygoid implants typically last 15–20 years and can even last a lifetime with proper care.
• Ideal for Patients with Severe Bone Loss: This is the optimal solution for individuals with extensive upper jaw bone resorption who are not suitable candidates for traditional implants without undergoing complex bone grafting procedures.
• High Success Rate: Clinical studies report a 96-98% success rate over 5-10 years, ensuring reliable and long-lasting restoration results.
• Rapid Restoration of Function and Aesthetics: Patients can start using temporary teeth immediately after surgery, restoring both chewing ability and aesthetics without the need for prolonged recovery periods.

Important Considerations for Pterygoid Implant

While pterygoid implants provide outstanding benefits, patients must follow key guidelines to ensure a successful procedure and long-term implant durability:

• Choose a Reputable Dentist and Clinic: Pterygoid implant surgery requires a high level of expertise. Patients should select a clinic with experienced specialists and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure safety and optimal outcomes.
• Application of Advanced X-Navigation Technology: This system utilises dynamic tracking software and equipment, allowing dentists to precisely control the position, angle, and depth of the implant with greater accuracy compared to traditional methods. This helps minimise errors, reduce surgical time, and increase the success rate for pterygoid implant placement.
• Undergo a Comprehensive Health Assessment Before Surgery: Patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, or blood clotting disorders must have their conditions well-managed before implantation to minimise risks and complications.
• Adhere to Post-Surgery Care Instructions: Proper oral hygiene is essential after implantation. Patients should avoid hard or chewy foods in the initial recovery phase and follow their dentist’s recommendations for follow-up care.
• Adapt to Initial Sensations: Mild pressure or discomfort may occur in the first few days due to the implant's anchoring to the zygomatic bone. However, this sensation typically subsides as the body adapts.
• Schedule regular dental checkups: Routine check-ups every six months help monitor implant stability, detect potential issues early, and maximise the longevity of the restoration.

Pterygoid implant is a modern solution that allows edentulous patients to regain confidence and restore optimal chewing function without the need for bone grafting. However, to ensure the best results, it is essential to choose a reputable dental clinic and follow proper post-treatment oral care guidelines. If you are looking for a specialised implant centre, contact East Rose Dental Clinic today for a detailed consultation!

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