The subperiosteal implant method, developed for individuals who have lost teeth but do not have sufficient jawbone volume, is emerging as an alternative to traditional implant treatments. It offers an effective solution, especially in cases where bone grafting is not possible or surgical intervention is risky.

In this article, we answer all your questions about what subperiosteal implants are, who they are suitable for, and how they are applied. Additionally, the article will include up-to-date and comprehensive information on the advantages, disadvantages, pricing, and treatment process of this method.

What is a Subperiostal Implant?

Subperiostal implants are custom-designed implants placed under the gum tissue but on top of the alveolar bone. Unlike traditional endosteal implants, they are fixed by being placed under the periosteum rather than into the bone. Thanks to these features, they offer an effective treatment option for patients with advanced alveolar bone resorption who are not suitable for conventional implant applications.

With the integration of modern digital imaging techniques and 3D printing technology, subperiostal implants are custom-made based on the patient’s tomography data. This enables the implant to perfectly align with the jawbone and allows for minimally invasive surgical intervention. This approach both shortens the treatment process and reduces the risk of postoperative complications.

For more detailed information on the historical development of subperiostal implants, modern production techniques, and clinical applications, please refer to the review article “The Evolution of Custom Subperiosteal Implants for Treatment of Partial or Complete Edentulism in Patients with Severe Alveolar Ridge Atrophy,” published in 2024, which provides a comprehensive scientific evaluation on this topic.

Who is a candidate for subperiosteal implants?

Subperiosteal implant treatment has been developed specifically for individuals with bone loss in the jaw. This treatment is particularly suitable for the following patient groups:

• Individuals with jawbone resorption: When bone density is insufficient for traditional implants, subperiosteal implants offer an important alternative. In these patients, the implant is placed on top of the bone rather than into it, resulting in a high success rate.
• Elderly individuals: Age-related bone loss can make traditional implant procedures difficult in these patients. Additionally, due to the sensitivity of their overall health condition, major surgical procedures are not recommended. At this point, subperiosteal implants become an ideal option for the elderly due to their minimal surgical requirements and the absence of screws being placed into the bone.
• Individuals with systemic diseases: Subperiosteal implants can also be safely used in patients with weak bone structure due to diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis. In this case, the use of fixed prostheses becomes possible thanks to implants designed specifically for the patient.
• Patients for whom grafting is not possible: For some patients, graft surgeries may be risky or impossible. In such cases, the subperiosteal dental implant method offers an alternative and safe treatment process.

Thanks to subperiosteal dental implant technology, the necessity for bone grafting is eliminated for those seeking fixed dentures. This makes the treatment both faster and less invasive.

When Are Subperiostal Implants Preferred?

Subperiostal implants are an ideal treatment option for individuals who have insufficient jawbone volume but desire fixed dentures. Subperiostal implants offer an important alternative, especially in cases where traditional implant methods cannot be applied.

The main situations in which subperiostal implants are preferred are as follows:

• Insufficient Jawbone Volume: In patients with reduced jawbone volume due to long-term tooth loss, age-related bone loss, or traumatic loss, there may not be enough bone for traditional implants. In such cases, subperiostal implants, which do not require placement into the bone, are preferred.
• When Surgical Graft Procedures Are to Be Avoided: Advanced surgical procedures such as bone grafting can be costly and have a long recovery period. Subperiosteal implant treatment offers the possibility of fixed dentures without the need for additional graft surgery.
• In Patients Where Surgical Risks Need to Be Reduced: Minimal invasive treatment is preferred in individuals with systemic health issues, those at risk of surgical complications, or those with poor healing capacity. Subperiosteal dental implants are a safer option as they are applied without placing screws into the bone.
• For individuals who are afraid of surgical procedures or cannot undergo general anesthesia: Subperiostal implants provide a more comfortable and tolerable treatment process for patients who are afraid of surgical interventions or have a high risk of anesthesia.
• Patients Seeking Faster Healing and Shorter Treatment Duration: Subperiosteal implant procedures are also a suitable alternative for patients seeking to shorten treatment duration, as they can provide fixed dentures without waiting for bone healing.

For these reasons, subperiosteal implants are safely preferred in special cases, both for patient comfort and treatment success.

How is a Subperiostal Implant Applied?

Subperiostal implant treatment begins with special measurements and 3D imaging techniques. The existing structure of the jawbone is analyzed in detail. Based on this analysis, a customized implant design is created for the patient. Advanced imaging techniques minimize the margin of error.

The prepared implant is placed under the gum line on the upper part of the jawbone and secured in place. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually requires stitches. During the treatment process, the subperiosteal implant heals in harmony with the surrounding tissues and serves as a support point for permanent dental prostheses.

Following the procedure, the patient can resume daily activities such as speaking and eating with temporary prostheses. Permanent prostheses are typically placed within a few weeks. Patient comfort is prioritized throughout this process. Post-treatment pain management, wound care, and follow-up appointments must be carefully maintained.

What are the advantages of subperiosteal implants?

Subperiosteal implant application is preferred because it provides fixed teeth without the need for surgical grafting. This method offers permanent solutions in a short time and increases patient comfort. At the same time, it is less traumatic than traditional methods, which is an important factor in its preference.

The main advantages of subperiostal implants are as follows:

• No bone graft is required.
• Permanent dental prostheses can be obtained in a short time.
• The operation time is shorter, and the healing process is faster.
• Since no screws are placed in the bone, the surgical risk is lower.
• It is safe for individuals with advanced age and systemic health issues.
• Digital planning ensures a personalized fit.
• High patient satisfaction is achieved.
• The surgical procedure is less invasive, and recovery is more comfortable.

Recent scientific reports on the role of subperiosteal implants in the rehabilitation of atrophic jaws and their clinical successes clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of this treatment method. As stated in the study The Role of Custom-made Subperiosteal Implants for Rehabilitation of Atrophic Jaws – A Case Report, it is now possible to achieve fast, safe, and successful results with custom-designed subperiosteal implants.

Custom-made Subperiostal Implants Produced with 3D Printing Technology

In recent years, developments in digital health technologies have paved the way for important innovations in the field of dental implantology. One of these developments is the production of patient-specific subperiostal implants using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology.

This method offers an alternative solution for cases where standard implant options are insufficient due to advanced bone loss. 3D printing technology enables the production of implants designed to perfectly match the patient’s jaw structure. As a result, implants that are fully compatible with and stable in the existing anatomy of the jawbone are obtained.

A recent scientific report published in the literature provides a detailed examination of the use of a custom-made subperiosteal implant produced using 3D printing in a case of severe atrophic jaw. Those interested can find more information about the processes and clinical results of this application in the study “Custom-made 3D Printed Subperiosteal Implant for Restoration of Severe Atrophic Jaw: A Case Report.”

These new-generation applications signal that personalized treatment planning will play a much more important role in dentistry in the future.

Disadvantages and Risks of Subperiosteal Implants

Like any medical procedure, subperiosteal implant treatment also carries certain risks. The most common risks include unwanted complications following the procedure. However, these risks can be minimized with appropriate patient selection and experienced specialists.

The main disadvantages and risks of subperiosteal implants are as follows:

• There is a risk of the implant shifting out of place in poorly planned treatments.
• Infection or incompatibility with surrounding tissues may occur.
• It may not be suitable for all patients; certain systemic conditions may hinder treatment.
• It may be more expensive compared to other implant types due to the need for specialized design.
• Complications may arise if oral hygiene is not maintained properly after the procedure.

Therefore, a detailed clinical evaluation should be performed before subperiosteal implants are applied.

Each patient’s general health, bone structure, and suitability for treatment should be carefully analyzed, and the treatment process should be planned individually. This approach contributes to the prevention of possible complications and increases the success of the implant. These risks are minimized when treatments are planned by an expert dentist.

Precautions to Take After Subperiostal Implants

Certain rules must be followed after subperiostal implant application to ensure a healthy healing process. First, oral hygiene must be maintained, and oral care products recommended by the dentist must be used regularly.

In addition, soft foods should be preferred for a few days after the procedure, and hot drinks and cigarettes should be avoided. The healing process should be closely monitored with regular check-ups after subperiosteal implant treatment. Antibiotic treatment may be administered to reduce the risk of infection and speed up healing.

It is very important to follow the dentist’s instructions during the healing period. Many details, from tooth brushing techniques to dietary recommendations, affect the success of the treatment. It is recommended to visit the dentist at regular intervals to evaluate the fit of the prosthesis and jaw function.

Subperiostal Implant Prices

Subperiostal implant prices vary depending on the quality of the materials used, the clinic where the treatment will be performed, the experience of the doctor, and the patient’s specific treatment plan. Costs may differ from traditional implant treatments, especially due to custom-made implant designs.

When determining the cost of this treatment, 3D imaging, measurement techniques, and prosthesis stages are also taken into consideration. Subperiostal implant treatment offers a long-term, durable solution, making it a worthwhile investment.

Additionally, any additional procedures the patient may require (tooth extraction, oral cleaning, etc.) can affect the price. After the initial consultation and radiological imaging, a personalized price plan is created. Prices may also vary depending on the center and city where the procedure is performed.

Subperiosteal Implant Treatment Duration

The subperiosteal implant treatment process can be completed within an average of 2-4 weeks from the initial examination. This duration may vary depending on the patient’s bone structure and overall oral health.

In the first stage, measurements and planning are performed, followed by the surgical procedure. A temporary or permanent prosthesis is fitted to the patient within a few days after the procedure. With subperiosteal implants, it is possible to achieve fixed teeth in a shorter period of time.

In some cases, especially if there are delays in the healing process, this period may extend up to 6 weeks. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to start treatment on time, attend regular check-ups, and strictly follow the dentist’s instructions.

What is the Lifespan of Subperiosteal Implants?

When properly applied and the patient maintains good oral hygiene, subperiosteal implants can last between 10 and 20 years. This duration depends on factors such as the implant’s design, the quality of the materials used, the dentist’s success in the procedure, and the patient’s overall health.

Regular check-ups, proper prosthesis care, and adherence to the dentist’s instructions play a critical role in extending the implant’s lifespan.

Endosteal vs. Subperiostal Implant: Which Method Is Suitable for Which Situation?

The two most commonly used methods in dental implant treatments are endosteal and subperiostal implants. Both methods are determined based on the patient’s needs. The following table outlines the key differences between these two implant types:

Do you need expert support for your subperiosteal implant treatment?

If you have been told that you are not suitable for traditional implant treatment due to insufficient jawbone, the subperiosteal implant method may be ideal for you. The successful planning of your treatment and the management of the application process by expert physicians are of great importance.

At Ata Pera Dental Clinic, we offer customized implant solutions for every patient. Our team of experts in subperiosteal dental implants can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Equipped with advanced technology, our clinic delivers both healthy and aesthetic results.

Our expert consultants will guide you throughout the treatment process and keep you informed at every stage. We provide services in full compliance with sterilization and patient safety protocols. Ata Pera Dental Clinic is a reliable address for those seeking quality dental treatment in Istanbul.

Why Ata Pera Dental Clinic?

Istanbul is one of Turkey’s leading centers for implant treatments. Located in the heart of Istanbul, Ata Pera Dental Clinic stands out with its team of doctors specialized in subperiosteal implants and other implant treatments, as well as its modern infrastructure. Offering effective and safe solutions for individuals with insufficient jawbone, Ata Pera is one of the preferred and leading dental clinics in Istanbul in this field.

Contact us for detailed information about subperiosteal implants and to schedule a free initial consultation. Achieving a new smile with healthy and safe steps is possible!