The Future of Extra-Oral Implantology

Abstract

In this paper conclusions are drawn from the experiences of subjects presented in the previous studies in this issue. Indications for bone-anchored implants, the percutaneous passage, implant placement in irradiated tissues, and the psychosocial aspects of treatment are discussed in detail. The future of the extra-oral implantology is also discussed. There is some experience with using bone-anchored implants exlra-orally, but both medical and dental staff and the patients themselves are reluctant to use them. In the future, this might change when the percutaneous passage is improved, when hyperbaric oxygen therapy is generally used, when there is more insight into all the possibilities and limitations of bone-anchored devices, and when their application is generally accepted.

Key Words:

• percutaneous
• implants
• facial defects
• auricular prostheses