Related Experiment Videos
Clinical evaluation of small-diameter ITI implants: a prospective study
Barbara Zinsli1, Tanja Sägesser, Ernoe Mericske
1Department of Prosthodontics, University of Bern, School of Dental Medicine, Bern, Switzerland.
The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants
|February 26, 2004
Summary
Small-diameter dental implants (3.3-mm ITI) show infrequent failures and predictable outcomes when used appropriately. Prosthetic complications were not linked to implant diameter, though long-term fatigue fractures are possible.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Implantology
- Prosthodontics
Background:
- Small-diameter dental implants are crucial for narrow bone or interdental spaces.
- They are particularly useful for replacing small teeth like incisors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clinically evaluate 2-part ITI implants with a 3.3-mm diameter.
- Assess the survival rate and prosthetic complications of these implants.
Main Methods:
- A 10-year study involving 149 patients and 298 implants.
- Implants were restored with fixed prostheses and patients followed a strict maintenance program.
Main Results:
- Cumulative 5-year survival rate was 98.7% (96.6% at 6 years).
- Failures included peri-implant infection (3 implants) and body fractures (2 implants).
- Prosthetic complications were minor, mainly loose screws and sore spots.
Conclusions:
- 3.3-mm ITI implants are predictable when clinical guidelines and restorations are appropriate.
- Failures were infrequent, and complications were not diameter-dependent.
- Long-term fatigue fractures are a potential concern.