We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Procedures

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Maxillary Implants?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 11,281
Share

Maxillary implants are dental implants fitted into the upper jaw, also known as the maxilla. Implants are used to support certain types of dental appliances and are installed by a dental specialist. Once the implants settle, the attached dental appliance can be fitted. If implants are an option for a dental treatment, this will be discussed with the patient and the patient can be provided with information about risks and benefits of dental implants, based on the specifics of the case.

With maxillary implants, devices are rooted in the bone and they cannot be dislodged. In cases where the maxilla has been damaged, grafting may be necessary, with the implant being installed and bone grafts placed around it to promote the growth of new bone. The implant has a roughened surface, encouraging bone to grow into and around the base to secure it firmly. After the procedure to place a maxillary implant, X-rays are periodically taken to see how well the patient's jaw is tolerating it before adding a dental appliance.

Sometimes, maxillary implants reject. The reasons for implant rejection are not well understood, as implants are made from standardized materials designed to resist rejection. Infections, inflammation, and other problems associated with poor wound care can cause rejection, but sometimes the implants reject with no warning. Bone fails to fuse with the implant, and it can be easily moved in the jaw. The procedure needs to be repeated or the patient should consider other treatment options.

A single replacement tooth can be attached to an implant, or a dentist can fabricate a group of teeth spanning multiple implants. The teeth are carefully designed so they match existing teeth, if the patient has any, and to address concerns about abrasions to the gums and lips caused by poorly fitting dental appliances. Once the teeth are in place, the patient should be able to eat and drink relatively normally.

If maxillary implants are not considered, the patient may use a bridge, where an artificial tooth is placed and anchored to existing teeth, or dentures, a complete or partial set of replacement teeth. These will require careful maintenance for life, and because they are not fixed in place with maxillary implants, the patient usually needs to eat a special diet to avoid damaging or losing the teeth. The disadvantages of dentures and bridges lead many dentists to recommend implants when they appear to be a viable option for a patient's needs.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a The Health Board researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-are-maxillary-implants.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.