Paradigm shift in implant dentistry

In this modern era implants have out classed and out matched fixed and removable modalities of rehabilitating edentulousness. this has been chiefly due to advancements in material science, improved knowledge of the bone-implant interface dynamics and surgical techniques. these in turn have made possible predictable outcomes for this mode of treatment. However, there are still many issues that need to be addressed. For example, even while osseointegration has been the bedrock of implantology the ankylosed nature of the interface does present significant problems in certain clinical situations. Similarly, the nature of the bone and anatomic proximity of the sinus in the posterior maxilla does present issues while navigating this region. Last but not the least has been the not so successful methods to conserve bone loss during osteotomy for implant bed preparations which can compromise primary stability. this article is an attempt to highlight the various strategies adopted to overcome these hurdles and which have resulted in a paradigm shift in the way implantology will be practiced in the future. A paradigm shift means a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.