The field of implantology, a specialized area of dental medicine, is dedicated to restoring oral function and aesthetics through the placement of dental implants. This is particularly important given the significant impact tooth loss can have on a person’s quality of life, affecting not only their ability to eat and speak comfortably but also their mental and physical well-being.
In Saint-Malo, France, a new dental practice specializing in oral surgery has recently opened within the La Conchée health center. The practice is the initiative of Dr. Mathilde Seigneur, a specialist originally from Rennes, and represents a growing focus on this combined skillset of dental surgery and maxillofacial surgery. Dr. Seigneur holds a specialized studies diploma (DES) in oral surgery, gained through four years of hospital internship, alongside two university diplomas in axial and basal implantology.
What is Oral Surgery and Implantology?
Oral surgery encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of conditions, injuries, and pathologies affecting the mouth, jaws, and surrounding structures. It’s a field that blends surgical techniques with a deep understanding of dental medicine, addressing a wide range of issues from routine dental problems to complex cases. According to the Malo Clinic, oral surgery plays a crucial role in overall health, impacting chewing, speech, self-esteem, and even general well-being. Procedures can range from simple extractions to more involved treatments like tumor removal and complex rehabilitations.
Implantology specifically focuses on replacing missing teeth with dental implants – artificial roots made of biocompatible titanium. These implants can support single crowns, or fixed bridges, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth loss. Unlike removable prostheses, implants are designed to function more like natural teeth, improving confidence and comfort.
The All-on-4 Technique
One notable advancement in implantology is the All-on-4 technique, pioneered and championed by the MALO CLINIC. This approach involves supporting a full arch of replacement teeth with just four strategically placed implants. Two implants are typically positioned vertically in the front of the mouth, while the two posterior implants are angled to maximize bone engagement and avoid sensitive anatomical structures like the sinus cavity or nerve canals.
The All-on-4 technique offers several advantages. It often allows for immediate loading, meaning patients can receive a provisional set of fixed teeth on the same day as surgery. This reduces treatment time, surgical complexity, and overall cost compared to traditional methods requiring multiple implants. The technique is rooted in biomechanical efficiency, distributing forces evenly across the arch and enhancing long-term stability. It also frequently avoids the need for extensive bone grafting, making it accessible to a wider range of patients.
Expanding the Practice and Expertise
Recognizing the increasing demand for these specialized services, Dr. Seigneur has expanded her team. Pierre Louis Polard, a former intern from Brest with a university diploma in implantology, has joined the practice. This collaboration allows them to offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including implantology, periodontology, oral surgery, and full rehabilitation.
The practice, located at La Conchée health center, 4, rue Joséphine Le Scolan, can be reached at +351 217 228 120 or via email at surgery.implantation.malo@gmail.com. The location’s proximity to the Côte d’Émeraude clinic facilitates procedures requiring general anesthesia.
The Importance of Specialized Care
The growth of practices like Dr. Seigneur’s highlights the increasing recognition of the importance of specialized care in oral health. Oral surgeons have specialized training to perform procedures in both clinical and hospital settings, ensuring patient safety and comfort. Early diagnosis of pathologies, prevention of complications, and improved quality of life are all benefits offered by this specialty. Treatments like dental implants can restore not only function and aesthetics but also a patient’s self-esteem and overall well-being. Oral surgery can address chronic pain stemming from issues like temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ).
For individuals considering dental implants, particularly the All-on-4 approach, the MALO CLINIC is recognized as a global leader in this field, offering high standards of quality, safety, and clinical expertise. The technique represents a significant advancement in restorative dentistry, aligning clinical science with patient needs to achieve optimal outcomes.
