Proper 3D Positioning Crucial for Minimizing Peri-Implant Bone Loss, Study Finds

A recent study published in The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants has shed light on the critical factors influencing peri-implant bone loss. The research, involving 479 patients and 776 dental implants, has identified several key risk factors that dental professionals should consider when planning and placing implants.

Vertical Deviation and Mandibular Molar Implants: High-Risk Factors

The study’s findings indicate that vertical deviation in implant positioning and implants located in the mandibular molar region pose the highest risk for peri-implant bone loss. Dr. Satheesh Elangovan, commenting on the study, emphasized, “To minimize peri-implant bone loss, proper 3D positioning of dental implants is vital.”

Moderate and Weak Risk Factors Identified

Horizontal deviation in implant positioning emerged as a moderate risk factor. Additionally, the research highlighted cement-retained prostheses and non-platform switched implants as weak risk factors for bone loss.

Study Methodology and Results

The case-control study, conducted from January 2018 to December 2021, compared implants with bone loss (case group) to those without (control group). A multivariate logistic regression model was employed to evaluate various risk factors, including:

• History of periodontitis
• Abutment connection type
• Implant surface, diameter, and location
• Three-dimensional position
• Opposing dentition
• Adjacent teeth
• Prosthetic type and retention method

The analysis revealed that implants in the mandibular molar region had an odds ratio (OR) of 10.427, while vertical deviation showed an OR of 10.107, indicating their high-risk status.

Implications for Dental Professionals

These findings underscore the importance of precise implant positioning and careful consideration of implant location. Dr. Elangovan further advised, “Opting for screw-retained restorations and platform-switched implants is another means to reduce bone loss around implants.”

Conclusion and Future Directions

This comprehensive study provides valuable insights for dental professionals seeking to minimize peri-implant bone loss. By focusing on proper 3D positioning and considering the identified risk factors, clinicians can potentially improve long-term outcomes for their patients.

Further research may be needed to explore additional strategies for mitigating these risk factors and to develop more precise guidelines for implant placement in high-risk areas.