Osseo-integrated sub-periosteal implant

A sub-periosteally implantable support structure for supporting a detachable or fixed dental prosthesis comprising:

• A) a framework in at least a partial arch fitted to and generally conforming to the inner and outer contours of one of the maxillary and mandibular bony ridge structures of a person, said framework being configured in cross section to provide a space extending generally normal to the bony ridge structure to provide space beneath the outer surface of said framework for subsequent bone growth;
• B) a plurality of denture support posts, said denture support posts being distributed about and affixed to said framework and depending outwardly from said apex in substantial alignment with the bony ridge structure of the person when said support structure has been sub-periostally implanted;
• and
• C) a bio-compatible fine mesh screen fixed to and spanning said framework to substantially overlay the framework fitted to one of the maxillary and mandibular bony ridges of the person to which said framework has been fitted, said fine mesh screen also overlaying said space provided for subsequent bone growth, thereby allowing for gum and soft tissue attachment to said fine mesh screen;
• whereby, after said support structure has been sub-periostally implanted, the growth of bone into said space and around said support structure is promoted to osseo-integrate said support structure with the person's bony ridge, thus providing a secure foundation for a dental prosthesis configured for coupling with said dental prosthesis support posts.