[Implants: where, when, how, why?].

Abstract

The concept of osseointegration which means direct contact between bone and implant has provided new possibilities for implantology and a much more serious approach of the method. Implants are placed following a two phases schedule: first a surgical procedure with a sophisticated insertion of the implants and 3 to 6 months later a prosthetic procedure. Implants can be used in many applications: single tooth replacement, partial and total edentulism. Osseous grafts can be added if needed. Connected and non-connected bridges are built on implants with a tendency to use more non-connected bridges. If all the conditions of placement of the implants and of realisation of the prosthetic supra-structures are respected, there are very few complications. Implants are actually the unique possibility to give the patient fixed oral rehabilitation while preserving the remaining bone and teeth.