Basal Implants: Meaning, Types, and Benefits

Basal or cortical implants, otherwise known as basal osseointegrated implants (BOI), are a ground-breaking dental implant option that provides a dependable and efficient solution for those with compromised bone structure or a scarcity of bone volume. So, this post intends to offer a comprehensive understanding of basal implants, delving into their meaning, the various types available, and the numerous benefits they provide.

Meaning of Basal Implants

BOI, often used in the field of dental medicine, are innovative implants explicitly crafted to anchor into the basal bone. This particular bone is more robust, denser and provides more stability than conventional implant sites. These implants afford a firm foundation for dental restorations by leveraging the inherent strength of the cortical bone. This bone region offers fantastic primary stability and significantly decreases the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting.

Types of BOI

Two main types of basal implants are recognised in the dental community, each with unique characteristics and applications. They are:

• Bicortical Implants These types of implants are notable for their ability to engage the cortical bone on both the upper and lower aspects of the jaw. This interaction ensures exceptional stability and makes them suitable for patients with sufficient bone density in the basal areas. Bicortical implants provide a promising option for those who can leverage the stability of both jaw sides.

• Monocortical Implants: These implants contrastingly engage the cortical bone on only one side of the jaw, usually the lower cortical plate. They come into play when the upper cortical plate is thin or otherwise inadequate for bicortical engagement. Monocortical implants offer a viable alternative for situations where full bicortical engagement is not feasible.

Their Benefits

Cortical implants come with many benefits, making them a favourable choice in many clinical situations:

• Immediate Loading : One of the primary advantages of the implants is their compatibility with immediate loading. This feature means that the dental prosthesis can be affixed almost immediately following the placement of the implant. This swift process reduces the overall treatment time, providing a more convenient and efficient experience for the patient.

• Reduced Need for Bone Grafting: Because cortical implants effectively utilise the available basal bone, the necessity for bone grafting procedures is significantly reduced or even completely eliminated. This aspect is particularly beneficial for patients with limited bone volume or compromised bone structure.

• High Success Rates: BOI boasts impressive success rates due to its superb primary stability and biocompatibility. Appropriate case selection and strict adherence to surgical protocols further contribute to these implants’ longevity and effectiveness.

• Minimally Invasive Procedure: Compared to traditional implant procedures, these implants typically require less invasive surgical techniques. This approach reduces postoperative discomfort, causes faster healing, and minimises surgery risk.

• Suitable for Challenging Cases: BOI can also be a suitable option for patients with challenging anatomical conditions, such as severe bone resorption, thin alveolar ridges, or compromised sinus or nerve positions. These implants can provide stability even when traditional implants are not feasible.

Considerations and Case Selection

When considering BOI, it is crucial to conduct a thorough case selection and evaluation. Many factors must be carefully assessed, such as the quality and quantity of bone, occlusal considerations, and the patient’s overall oral and systemic health status. It is also imperative to consider potential basal implant disadvantages as part of this comprehensive evaluation. Collaborating with an experienced implantologist is essential to ensure optimal treatment outcomes, and they can provide a balanced view of this procedure’s advantages and potential drawbacks.

Basal implants offer a reliable and effective solution for individuals with compromised bone structure or limited bone volume. Considering basal implant costs alongside their high success rates, reduced need for bone grafting, and minimally invasive nature, it’s clear that these implants have revolutionised implant dentistry. Understanding their meaning, types, and benefits, including a realistic assessment of the implant costs, equips patients and dental professionals with valuable knowledge. And this enables them to make sound decisions and achieve successful outcomes in implant-based restorations.