A shorter implant, to make the most of the available bone
After a tooth is lost, the jawbone remodels and may lose height or width. In the back areas, the proximity of the maxillary sinus or the inferior alveolar nerve can then limit the space available for an implant.
A short implant is an artificial root of reduced length. The definition varies between publications; many studies concern implants of 6 mm or less. In some situations, this approach makes it possible to replace a tooth using the existing bone, without increasing its height with a graft.
What makes the Bicon system different
The Bicon short implant range includes 5 mm and 6 mm models. Their body has fins (plateaus) rather than a conventional spiral thread. The abutment that carries the crown is held by a self-locking tapered connection, with no abutment screw.
These features are part of how the system works. They do not replace careful case selection, good oral hygiene or follow-up: no implant design on its own eliminates the risk of infection or failure.
Dr Afshin Yousefpour regularly uses Bicon implants in his practice when the anatomy and the prosthetic plan are suitable. His experience in maxillofacial surgery allows him to assess this option as well as bone reconstruction techniques.
What are the benefits for the patient?
- Avoiding some grafting procedures. Limited bone height does not always require reconstruction. A short implant can sometimes be an alternative to a sinus lift or to vertical bone augmentation.
- A simpler surgical pathway. When a graft is avoided, the number of procedures and the waiting times related to its healing can be reduced.
- Fewer after-effects from additional surgery. Treatment may be less demanding, while pain, swelling or bleeding remain possible.
- Matching the length to the anatomy. The choice of implant takes the nerve and sinus into account, with a planned safety margin. A shorter length does not make these structures risk-free.
The overall cost may also be lower if a graft is no longer needed. A personalised quote makes it possible to compare the treatment pathways as a whole.
Short implant or bone graft: how to choose?
Short implants may suit patients with reduced bone height, especially in the premolar and molar areas. There must still be enough bone volume for the chosen diameter and to achieve suitable stability.
Very severe atrophy, a ridge that is too narrow or an unfavourable position of the future tooth may justify a bone graft. Age alone does not determine the choice.
| Option | Under what conditions? |
|---|---|
| Short implant in existing bone | Remaining bone volume and prosthetic plan are compatible, with no need to increase height. |
| Implant with bone reconstruction | Insufficient support, or the site needs rebuilding for a suitable position and restoration. |
Gum quality, a history of periodontitis, smoking, general health, bruxism and chewing forces also play a part in the decision.
A 3D assessment for your plan
In Brussels and Waterloo, the consultation with Dr Yousefpour combines a clinical examination with an analysis of the future restoration, in coordination with the dentist making the prosthesis.
When indicated, the CBCT (3D scan) measures the bone dimensions and shows its relationship with anatomical structures. At Face Clinic, the NewTom Giano HR DC is part of this digital workflow. The protocol and field of view are adapted to the clinical question, with the aim of limiting exposure.
The choice covers the whole implant–abutment–crown unit: length, diameter, position and load distribution. A period of osseointegration is still required; a short implant does not automatically mean an immediate final tooth.
What does research say about their reliability?
Randomised trials, some with ten-year follow-up, support the use of 6 mm implants as an alternative to longer implants combined with a sinus lift in selected situations in the back of the upper jaw.
These results relate to specific populations and systems; they do not prove that every short implant, of any brand, is equivalent in every situation. The outlook depends on the case treated, the prosthesis and maintenance.
As with other implants, failure to integrate, peri-implant inflammation or bone loss and prosthetic complications remain possible. Regular check-ups and appropriate cleaning help the treatment last.
Your questions about short implants
Can a graft always be avoided with Bicon?
No. There must be enough bone in all three dimensions and a restoration that can be made under good conditions. The assessment allows the options to be compared.
Is a short implant less strong?
Its length alone does not predict how it will perform. Its diameter, design, bone support and the forces on the crown must be assessed together.
How long does treatment take?
Avoiding a graft can shorten the pathway, but healing and implant integration take time. The timeline is set after your assessment.
Further reading
- Bicon: features of the SHORT range — manufacturer’s documentation.
- Bicon: system design and connection — manufacturer’s documentation.
- Guljé et al., 2024: ten-year randomised trial — 6 mm versus 11 mm implants with sinus floor elevation; a system other than Bicon.
This information helps you prepare for your consultation. The choice between a short implant and bone reconstruction is based on an individual assessment.