Dental Implants at Risk: Bruxism Linked to Higher Failure Rates

SWEDEN: Researchers from the Faculty of Odontology at Malmö University have conducted an extensive study titled “Bruxism and dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” This research delves into the impact of bruxism on the survival of dental implants, offering critical insights for dental professionals and patients alike.

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Examining the Effect of Bruxism

Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, has long been a concern in dentistry due to its potential to overload dental implants. The study’s primary objectives were to assess implant failure rates and marginal bone loss (MBL) in patients with probable bruxism compared to non-bruxers. 

To achieve their objectives, the researchers conducted a meticulous search, combing through electronic databases such as PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Science Direct in September 2022. 

They combined this electronic search with a thorough manual examination. Two independent reviewers were responsible for abstract screening, full-text assessment, quality assessment using the National Institutes of Health tool, and data extraction.

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The study included only research that provided comprehensive information, both through self-report and clinical examination, to diagnose at least ‘probable’ bruxism.

Surprising Findings

Out of 1338 studies identified, 27 studies met the stringent criteria, providing data on 2105 implants in probable bruxers and 10,264 implants in non-bruxers. Within these groups, there were 138 implant failures among probable bruxers and 352 implant failures among non-bruxers.

The meta-analysis conducted revealed that implants placed in probable bruxers carried a significantly higher risk of failure compared to those in non-bruxers, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.189 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.337 to 3.583 (p = .002). Remarkably, a meta-regression analysis demonstrated that follow-up time did not influence this OR.

Unfortunately, while eighteen studies provided general data on MBL, they did not differentiate between bruxers and non-bruxers. Consequently, it was not possible to analyze MBL outcomes.

Implications for Treatment Planning

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis carry significant implications for dental professionals and the management of implant patients. The study conclusively shows that dental implants placed in patients with probable bruxism face a substantially higher risk of failure. This underscores the importance of considering bruxism when planning and managing dental implant treatments.

For more details and in-depth insights, you can access the full study published on August 17, 2023, in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, DOI: 10.1111/joor.13567.

Source: Malmö University, Faculty of Odontology

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