Our Summary
This research investigated the effect of filling the gap between a dental implant and the socket in the jawbone with graft material, on the changes in hard and soft tissues after the immediate placement of a single implant.
Two researchers searched multiple scientific databases to find relevant clinical studies. They found 15 clinical trials involving a total of 577 patients who received 604 immediate single implants. The patients were followed anywhere from 4 to 36 months after their procedures.
The results showed that when graft material was used to fill the gap, there was less bone loss (by about 54%) and less soft tissue movement around the implant compared to when no grafting was done. There was also a trend toward less gum recession on the side away from the center of the mouth, but it wasn’t statistically significant.
However, the use of graft material didn’t significantly affect the amount of bone loss on the side of the implant facing the cheek, or the gum tissue on the side toward the center of the mouth.
Due to limited data, the researchers couldn’t analyze the effects on other outcomes such as changes in the amount of soft tissue in the middle of the face, aesthetic outcomes, changes in bone level around the implant, and signs of gum disease.
The researchers concluded that using graft material to fill the gap around an immediate single implant can help preserve the bone and stabilize the soft tissue around the implant. They recommend considering the use of graft material as an extra step when immediately placing a single implant.
FAQs
- What does the research show about the effect of using graft material during dental implant surgery?
- How many clinical trials and patients were involved in this research?
- Did the use of graft material affect the amount of bone loss on the side of the implant facing the cheek?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding certain foods, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, it is important to inform the dentist of any concerns or changes in symptoms during the healing process.
Suitable For
Patients who are missing a single tooth and are looking to replace it with a dental implant are typically recommended for dental implant surgery. Additionally, patients who have good overall oral health, adequate bone density in the jaw, and are non-smokers are also good candidates for dental implant surgery. Patients who have lost multiple teeth and are looking for a more permanent solution than traditional dentures may also be recommended for dental implant surgery.
Timeline
Before dental implant surgery, a patient may experience tooth loss, consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon, planning and preparation for the surgery, including any necessary extractions or bone grafting.
During the surgery, the patient will undergo the placement of the dental implant into the jawbone, followed by a healing period of several months for the implant to integrate with the bone.
After the surgery, the patient will experience follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the implant is successful. This may involve adjustments to the implant or restoration, such as a crown or bridge, to restore function and aesthetics.
Overall, the patient will eventually have a fully restored smile with a dental implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene will be essential to maintain the implant’s longevity and overall oral health.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the benefits of using graft material to fill the gap around the dental implant?
- Are there any risks or complications associated with using graft material in this procedure?
- How long does the healing process typically take when graft material is used?
- Will I need any additional procedures or appointments if graft material is used?
- How will using graft material affect the overall success and longevity of the dental implant?
- Are there any alternative options to using graft material in this procedure?
- What post-operative care instructions should I follow if graft material is used?
- How often will I need to follow up with you after the dental implant surgery if graft material is used?
- Are there any specific dietary restrictions or precautions I should take if graft material is used?
- Can you provide me with more information or resources on the use of graft material in dental implant surgery?
Reference
Authors: Seyssens L, Eeckhout C, Cosyn J. Journal: Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2022 Jun;24(3):339-351. doi: 10.1111/cid.13079. Epub 2022 Mar 21. PMID: 35313067