An article in the current issue of the Journal of Oral Implantology looks at long-term treatment for a patient with severe periodontal damage. The authors anticipate that the higher risk of implant failure in this patient will be offset by coating the implants with a rough, oxidized surface called TiUnite and by emphasizing the need for diligent oral hygiene. They also expect that by using overdenture prostheses instead of conventional removable dentures, they will improve stability and function — and thus patient satisfaction. Overall, increased use of implants has improved eating comfort and resulted in few complications after the surgery. However, pressure on implants is suspected to speed up loss of dense cortical bone in the jaw. Research has shown the TiUnite material stimulates bone growth, leading to faster fusion of implants and surrounding jawbone.RELATED | New material used in molar extraction sites optimizes bone regeneration and dental implant stability The current article is a case report on a 51-year-old patient who had been in a motorcycle accident and has a history of herpes, hepatitis, insulin-dependent diabetes, and persistent recurrent tooth decay. The patient’s remaining teeth (see photos below) were comprised of fractured crowns and older failing implants. The surgeons removed all of his teeth and old implants followed by the immediate insertions of new implants and stabilizing overdentures. Provisional implants were used for support during healing. Five months later, the interim provisional implants and prosthesis were removed and fabrication of a final restorative prosthesis was initiated.
Should a person’s teeth be saved at all costs? Over the last decade, the answer has shifted from yes to no in favor of replacing diseased and damaged teeth with implants. But treatment of patients with periodontitis, inflammatory disease of ligaments and bones supporting teeth, remains controversial because artificial tooth roots are more likely to fail.
