Basal Implants vs. Conventional Implants

.

Basal Implants vs. Conventional Implants

When considering full-mouth tooth replacement using implants, it’s important to understand the differences between Basal implants and Conventional implants. While basal implants offer certain benefits, conventional two-piece implants have a distinct advantage in several key areas.

1. Osseointegration vs. Osseofixation

One of the primary differences is how the implants interact with the bone. Basal implants achieve osseofixation, where they mechanically interlock with the bone, creating a stable, yet not fully integrated connection. In contrast, conventional implants achieve osseointegration, where the implant completely fuses with the surrounding bone, becoming a permanent part of the bone structure. This integration provides long-term stability and durability, often lasting a lifetime.

2. Prosthesis Attachment

Basal implants typically support cement-retained prostheses, where the restorations are secured with a glue-like cement. While effective, this attachment method can complicate retrievability if the prosthesis needs adjustment or repair. Once removed, the prosthesis cannot typically be reused. On the other hand, conventional implants support screw-retained prostheses, which allow for easy removal and reattachment of the prosthesis. Necessary changes can be made quickly, and the same bridge can be reused without difficulty.

3. Global Acceptance and Regulatory Approval

Conventional implants are universally approved and accepted worldwide, with FDA approval and widespread use across numerous countries. However, basal implants are not US FDA-approved and are prohibited in certain countries. This may be a concern for international patients, especially those seeking dental tourism for full-mouth replacement, as basal implants may not be accepted or supported in some regions.

Regardless of the disagreements with the Basal implants, few people are compelled to opt for Basal implants as they are

  • Immediate loading.
  • Do not require sinus lift and bone grafts.
  • Basal implants avoid peri implantitis.

What if there is a possibility to obtain the benefits of both Basal implants and universally acclaimed Conventional implants along with its benefits like OsseoIntegration of the implants with bone, Screw retained prosthesis apart from added benefits where the implants are suitable for Diabetic, Hypertensive and for people with smoking habits.

We can do this with ABC protocol (All on Basal Cortical)  and Tilted implants 

  1. Suitable sized implants can be placed to engage the basal cortical bone, proper Bone: Implant, contact ratio is a prerequisite for implant stability and proper Osseo integration of the implants.
  2. Can avoid additional surgical procedures by avoiding important anatomical structures.
  3. Aids in Immediate loading of Teeth.

The implants thus tilted at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees to the long axis in the bone can be straightened at the gum level using Multi-unit abutments available in different angles and sizes.

Another principal benefit of the multi unit abutments among its multitude of benefits, apart from straightening of the implants is, they maintain 2 to 3 mm distance between the implant body and the restoration, there by arresting the infection at the multi unit level and does not allow it to reach the implant embedded in the bone, this acts as an added benefit, to safe guard the implants.