Pterygoid implants
Written by:What is a pterygoid implant?
A pterygoid implant , like a conventional dental implant , is composed of titanium and owes its name to the bone where it is integrated, the Pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone. This bone is part of the base of the skull and provides an extraordinary anchorage in the posterior area of the maxilla in those patients who have suffered the loss of the molars or a reabsorption of the maxillary bone.
What differentiates them from other types of implants?
Regarding its design, pterygoid implants differ from conventional implants by a greater length, which allows their anchoring in the pterygoid process.. Another notable difference is that they are placed on an inclination that can reach 45 degrees. From the prosthetic point of view, the pterygoid implants behave like a conventional implant to support the dental prosthesis .
In what cases is its placement recommended?
The indications for placing pterygoid implants can be several. They are indicated in patients with a lack of bone in the posterior area of the maxilla and also to avoid the need for a bone graft in the maxillary sinus.. These measures enable rehabilitation with a fixed prosthesis in those patients with bone atrophy or osteoporosis .
What is the intervention?
The intervention for the placement of a pterygoid implant is done under local anesthesia , with intravenous sedation. It must be carried out in a surgical environment with the appropriate sterility measures.
Can there be complications?
The placement of pterygoid implants does not present major complications than that of traditional implants, as long as there is experience in implant surgery and a good knowledge of the anatomy of the posterior area of the maxilla and its relations with the pterygoid process.
Our experience in this type of implants is more than 25 years, with more than 2000 implants placed and a success rate of 98%.
Can the patient make normal life during the process?
The patient will be able to live a normal life after the intervention. The discomforts are usually minimal and in no case greater than the normal ones arising from the placement of conventional implants.
