Basal Implant vs. Conventional Implant: Why Conventional Implants Are the Better Choice

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often the best solution for long-term restoration. Two types of implants that are frequently discussed are basal implants and conventional implants. Both aim to restore missing teeth with a permanent solution, but there are several key differences between them, especially when it comes to longevity, reliability, and overall effectiveness.

In this blog, we'll compare basal implants and conventional implants, ultimately explaining why conventional implants are often the better choice for most patients seeking dental restoration.

What Are Conventional Implants?

Conventional dental implants have been the gold standard for tooth replacement for decades. They are typically made of titanium, which is known for its durability and biocompatibility with the jawbone. The procedure involves two main stages:

1. Surgical Placement: The implant is placed into the jawbone and left to heal for several months to allow osseointegration (the fusion of the implant with the bone).

2. Restoration: After successful healing, a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, giving the patient a fully functional and natural-looking tooth.

Advantages of Conventional Implants:

• Proven Track Record: Conventional implants have been in use for over 40 years and have an excellent success rate of around 95% to 98%.

• Natural Look and Feel: They integrate well with the jawbone, providing a stable and comfortable solution that mimics the natural tooth structure.

• Long-Term Durability: When placed properly, conventional implants are built to last a lifetime with minimal maintenance.

Basal implant vs conventional implant

What Are Basal Implants?

Basal implants are a newer technology in the field of dental implants. Unlike conventional implants, which are placed in the upper layers of the jawbone, basal implants are placed in the basal bone (the dense bone at the base of the jaw). Basal implants are designed to be less dependent on bone volume, which theoretically makes them ideal for patients with insufficient bone structure or those who have experienced bone loss.

The basal implant procedure often promises faster treatment, with some cases allowing immediate loading—where a crown or prosthesis is placed on the implant immediately after surgery.

Advantages of Basal Implants:

• Faster Treatment: Basal implants can sometimes be placed in a single appointment, and immediate loading is possible in some cases.

• Less Bone Requirement: These implants can be placed with less concern about bone density, making them suitable for patients with significant bone loss.

• No Need for Bone Grafting: In many cases, basal implants do not require additional bone grafting procedures.

Why Conventional Implants Are the Better Choice

While basal implants do offer some advantages, conventional implants are generally the better choice for most patients. Here's why:

1. Proven Long-Term Success

Conventional implants have been in practice for decades, with an incredibly high success rate. The process of osseointegration—the fusion of the implant with the jawbone—ensures a solid and lasting foundation for the artificial tooth. Over time, this bond between the implant and the bone becomes stronger, resulting in a stable and durable restoration.

In contrast, basal implants rely on the surrounding soft tissue and basal bone for support. While they can work in the short term, their long-term stability may not be as reliable as that of conventional implants, especially when subjected to long-term wear and tear.

2. Better Integration with Bone

Conventional implants are placed into the jawbone, allowing for proper osseointegration, which is a critical part of the healing and success process. As the bone fuses with the implant, it provides a solid anchor that helps prevent bone loss and maintains the natural structure of the jaw.

Basal implants are placed in the basal bone, which is denser but lacks the same regenerative potential as the upper layers of the jawbone. Although basal implants can work in cases of bone loss, the risk of complications such as implant loosening or failure is higher over time due to the lack of integration with the bone.

3. No Need for Immediate Loading in Most Cases

While basal implants may offer the possibility of immediate loading (placing a crown or prosthesis immediately after surgery), this approach isn’t always ideal. Immediate loading can sometimes result in pressure on the implant before proper osseointegration occurs, which may lead to implant failure or complications. Conventional implants, on the other hand, allow time for the bone to heal and properly integrate with the implant, leading to a more stable and long-lasting result.

4. Lower Risk of Complications

The use of basal implants can sometimes lead to complications due to their reliance on the soft tissue for support. They can be more vulnerable to issues like implant failure, bone resorption, or loosening over time. Conventional implants, thanks to their proven osseointegration process, carry a lower risk of complications and are generally considered a safer option for the majority of patients.

5. More Widely Available

Conventional implants have been widely adopted by dental professionals worldwide. This means that more dentists are skilled in placing conventional implants, and there are more options for follow-up care and support. Basal implants, on the other hand, are a relatively new technique and may require a specialist who is specifically trained in this area. Access to quality care and expertise may be limited in some regions, making conventional implants the more accessible option.

6. Cost-Effectiveness

In many cases, conventional implants are more cost-effective than basal implants. While the upfront costs of basal implants may seem appealing due to the potential for quicker treatment, the long-term maintenance and potential for complications can result in higher costs over time. Conventional implants, although they may take a bit longer to complete, are generally a more reliable and cost-effective investment in the long run.

Conclusion: Conventional Implants Are the Superior Choice

While basal implants may seem like a quick fix for patients with bone loss or those looking for a faster procedure, conventional implants remain the superior choice for most people seeking long-term tooth restoration. With their proven success, better integration with the jawbone, and a lower risk of complications, conventional implants provide a stable, natural-looking, and durable solution for missing teeth.

If you are considering dental implants, it’s important to discuss your options with an experienced dentist. They will help you determine whether a conventional implant or a basal implant is best suited to your needs. However, for the majority of patients, conventional implants offer the most reliable, cost-effective, and lasting solution to restore a beautiful smile.