Technological Advancements and Elderly Populations Lead to Increased Preference for Dental Implants

Monday 18 February 2013, Amsterdam

Dentists are putting a smile back on many faces, as the dental implants market is set to almost double in value over the next six years, states a new report by healthcare experts.

The new report states that the market is driven by growing concern over oral hygiene, an increasing life expectancy, and the availability of advanced solutions for dental implants based on digital dentistry which increases procedure efficiency.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of materials such as titanium or zirconium that can be inserted into the jaw, not only allowing the replacement of the missing tooth for cosmetic and practical reasons, but also preserving the jaw structure by preventing bone resorption or atrophy. In contrast to conventional fixed bridges or dentures, dental implants require no grinding down of healthy neighboring teeth, and do not cause discomfort when eating or speaking.

The increasing preference for dental implants as a treatment option over conventional devices such as the crowns, bridges or dentures is therefore unsurprising. Many people across the world have false teeth or bridges, but dental implants are a relatively new technology. However, a rapid uptake of dental implant procedures is expected in the future.

Emerging countries such as China, India and Brazil are expected to be the fastest growing markets globally. These countries account for a huge patient population due to large populations and correspondingly large aging populations, although price and surgeon efficiency could restrain the market.

Modern computer-guided dental implant surgery uses Computed Tomography (CT) scanning to determine the most suitable placement of dental implants and avoid causing trauma to surrounding nerves and tissues. CAD/CAM technology allows the use of high-quality restoration after the implant procedure, avoiding the long waiting times, high cost and loosening and damage of veneers often associated with conventional restorative procedures. The availability of Small-Diameter Implants (SDIs) has also further simplified the challenge of multiple implants, as they can be carried out even on limited bone volume and in narrow spaces.

In an effort to increase physician adoption, a number of manufacturers are focusing on training and education programs, which are expected to drive the adoption of dental implants in a big way. The global dental implants market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10% from US$3.4 billion in 2011 to US$6.6 billion in 2018.