Our Summary

This research paper reviews existing information on how mechanical stress affects the alveolar bone (the bone that holds our teeth in place) during the insertion of dental implants. The researchers looked at a variety of studies, including those done in labs, those involving animals, and clinical trials.

Implants need to be stable in the bone, especially for protocols that require immediate loading (putting a tooth on the implant right away). Current methods aim to avoid creating too much stress on the bone during implant insertion, as this could cause the bone to reabsorb, affecting the look and function of the implant.

The researchers found that using drills that are smaller than the size of the implant can increase stress on the bone. The threads of the implant can create small spaces for bone to grow, but direct contact between the implant and bone can lead to bone loss during healing. Bone loss also seems to be more likely when implants are placed with a lot of force, though these implants tend to have more overall contact with the bone during the initial healing period.

In clinical practice, implants that move around seem to have worse outcomes, and using a lot of force to insert them doesn’t necessarily guarantee success. In fact, implants inserted with high levels of force often show more changes in the bone level around the implant.

The researchers suggest that doctors should be careful not to put too much stress on the bone during implant surgery. They also suggest that future implant designs should consider how to best use the spongy bone inside, instead of just compressing the hard, outer layer of bone.

FAQs

  1. How does the insertion of dental implants affect the alveolar bone?
  2. What factors can increase the stress on the bone during dental implant surgery?
  3. What are the potential consequences of too much stress on the bone during dental implant insertion?

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 successful integration of the implant with the bone. This may include avoiding certain foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments with the dentist. Additionally, patients should communicate any concerns or issues they may have during the healing process to their dentist to address them promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for dental implant surgery include those who have missing teeth, good oral health, enough bone density to support the implant, and are in good overall health. Patients who have lost teeth due to trauma, decay, or gum disease may be good candidates for dental implants. Additionally, patients who wear dentures or bridges and are looking for a more permanent solution may also benefit from dental implant surgery.

It is important for patients to have a thorough evaluation by a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if they are suitable candidates for dental implant surgery. Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions, and inadequate bone density may impact the success of the procedure. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the procedure and be committed to good oral hygiene practices post-surgery to ensure the longevity of their dental implants.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  • Patient consults with a dentist or oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if they are a candidate for dental implants.
  • Diagnostic tests such as x-rays, CT scans, and impressions are taken to create a treatment plan.
  • Any necessary preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting or tooth extractions, are completed.
  • The patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure and arranging for transportation to and from the appointment.

After dental implant surgery:

  • The patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery.
  • Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.
  • The patient will need to follow a soft food diet and avoid certain activities to allow for proper healing.
  • Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the implants are integrating properly with the bone.
  • Once the implants have fully healed and integrated, the patient will return to have the permanent restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) attached to the implants.
  • The patient will receive instructions on how to care for their implants and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of their new teeth.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about dental implant surgery based on this research paper include:

  1. How will you ensure that the implant is stable in my alveolar bone during surgery?
  2. What size drill will you be using for the implant insertion, and how will this affect the stress on my bone?
  3. How will you prevent bone reabsorption and promote proper bone growth around the implant during the healing process?
  4. What techniques will you use to avoid creating excessive stress on my bone during the implant insertion?
  5. How will you ensure that the implant does not move around after surgery, and how will you prevent bone loss around the implant?
  6. What measures will you take to minimize the risk of bone changes around the implant during the healing period?
  7. Are there any specific implant designs or materials that you recommend based on the findings of this research paper?
  8. Can you explain how you plan to utilize the spongy bone inside my alveolar bone during the implant surgery, and how this differs from compressing the hard, outer layer of bone?
  9. Are there any additional precautions or considerations you will take based on the information presented in this research paper?
  10. Can you provide any additional information or insights on how you will optimize the success and longevity of my dental implant based on the latest research on mechanical stress and bone health?

Reference

Authors: Ikar M, Grobecker-Karl T, Karl M, Steiner C. Journal: Quintessence Int. 2020;51(2):142-150. doi: 10.3290/j.qi.a43664. PMID: 31781692