CLINICAL AND RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF THE OSSEOINTEGRATION, BONE LEVEL, BONE DENSITY AROUND SHORT DENTAL IMPLANTS IN POSTERIOR ATROPHIC MAXILLA

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Edentulous ridge in the posterior maxilla is often compromised by reduced bone volume. This anatomical condition limits the implant placement without sinus augmentation. The use of short implant minimizes the need of more extensive sinus floor elevation, thus reducing the duration and morbidity of the treatment. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to evaluate the osseointegration, bone level and bone density around short dental implants in posterior atrophic maxilla. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty short implants (Euroteknika-74700 sallanches-FRANCE) were inserted in posterior atrophic maxilla in ten adult patients. The bone density of implants recipient sites was determined by gray scale using CBCT. The implants’ stability was measured by resonance frequency analysis using Osstell ISQ. The bone level around the implant was measured by image J program. The values were determined immediately post-operatively and on intervals of 1, 3 & 6 months. RESULTS: The mean bone density value was (1522.0±137.14) at the site of implant placement preoperatively and (1649.50± 102.93), (1832.95±92.41), (1934.25± 82.72) at 1st, 3rd and 6th months postoperative respectively, there was a statistical significant increase. The mean implant stability value was (60.30+6.09) immediately post-operatively, then increased to (70.06±4.61) on the 6th month, there was a statistical significant increase. The marginal bone level immediately postoperatively was (0.54 ± 0.10 mm), on the 3rd month it was (0.62 ± 0.12 mm), on the 6th month it was (0.69 ± 0.15 mm) and on the 9th month it was (0.79 ± 0.21 mm). There was a statistically significant increase. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that short implants might be a preferable choice to place in atrophic posterior maxilla since the treatment is faster, cheaper and associated with less morbidity, however their long-term prognosis is unknown. KEY WORDS: Atrophic maxilla, Short implant, Bone density, Marginal bone level, Implant stability.