People with osteoporosis often end up needing more dental implants. Osteoporosis thins and weakens the bones, making them more porous, which increases bone fragility and the risk of fractures.
Women are affected more frequently because they tend to have lower bone mass than men, and bone loss accelerates with the onset of menopause. Other causes include alcoholism, the use of certain medications (glucocorticoids), and inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
Because there is high demand for dental implants in older adults, many patients with osteoporosis assume they aren’t candidates. However, numerous studies indicate there are no general contraindications to placing dental implants in patients with osteoporosis.
At first, osteoporosis was considered a risk factor for implant placement, since it was thought jawbone density might be reduced, making osseointegration more difficult.
Nevertheless, multiple studies conclude that oral changes are minimal in people with osteoporosis, and various techniques have been developed to promote new bone formation, effectively removing osteoporosis as a risk factor for dental implant placement.
It is very important to know which medications a patient is using to treat osteoporosis. If a patient has been on bisphosphonates (e.g., Fosamax) for a long time, oral surgical procedures including tooth extractions should be limited due to the effects these drugs have on bone.
If a patient with osteoporosis wants dental implants, a 3D radiologic study (Cone Beam CT scan) is necessary to properly assess available bone volume.
Dental implants: what types exist?
We know dental implants can dramatically improve your smile because they look and feel like natural teeth. Before undergoing treatment, it’s helpful to understand the three main types of dental implants to ensure the option chosen fits your needs.
Types of dental implants
There are three essential types of dental implants to choose from: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. Endosteal implants are the safest and most common, followed by subperiosteal; zygomatic implants are the least common and most complex, and are rarely used.
Endosteal dental implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type. They’re suitable for most patients but require a healthy jawbone so the post can fuse.
They are placeholder posts shaped like screws. They are inserted into the jawbone and serve as anchors for dentures or crowns.
After placement, healing takes time for fusion and strength to develop. Once healing is complete, the denture or crown can be attached to the post to blend with the surrounding teeth.
Subperiosteal dental implants
This is the main alternative to endosteal implants. Instead of being fixed inside the jawbone, subperiosteal implants rest on top of the bone but beneath the gum.
A metal framework is placed under the gum with posts attached. The gum then heals around the frame to hold it in place. The denture is fixed to the posts that protrude through the gum.
This procedure is used only if the patient doesn’t have enough jawbone for an endosteal implant, or if they simply don’t want more intensive bone-augmentation surgery.
Zygomatic dental implants
Zygomatic implants are the least common type. They’re the most complex and should be used only when there isn’t enough jawbone for an endosteal implant. The implant is anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) rather than the jaw.
Where can I get dental implants in Mexico?
Dr. Daniel Fernández is a specialist with more than 10 years of experience placing dental implants and performing periodontal treatments.
In addition, the total cost of an implant does not have to be paid at once. For example, payment for the implant rehabilitation is made 3 to 4 months after surgery, when the dental crown is placed.
Another advantage: we offer interest-free payment plans from 6 to 12 months for almost all major credit cards.
This informational post explains that osteoporosis does not prevent dental-implant placement. Success in these cases depends on careful planning, including a review of your medications and bone quality. This text does not replace a consultation. A specialist in implants will evaluate you while considering your overall health.
Having osteoporosis doesn’t prevent you from regaining your teeth. Book an implant evaluation. Contact us via WhatsApp, phone, or through our online form.
