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Measurement of the "Bungee Dip" in Implant Stability Using Resonance Frequency Analysis: Two Case Reports
1Clinical Professor of Periodontics, University of Maryland Dental School, Baltimore, Maryland; Adjunct Professor, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia; Private Practices, Yardley, Pennsylvania, and New York, New York.
Abstract:
Implant stability is a key consideration when determining the point in time a dental implant should be loaded. Often a change in implant stability is observed as healing progresses from initial mechanical stability to biologic stability, ie, osseointegration, during the bone modeling/remodeling process. This change in stability can be objectively measured using resonance frequency analysis (RFA). Because bone healing varies from patient to patient, the timing of this sequence may be unpredictable; in a small subset of patients the drop in implant stability can be quite precipitous and profound. Such a drop is referred to as a "bungee dip." If the implant is loaded too prematurely, it may fail due to inadequate healing. This article presents two case reports that demonstrate the use of RFA and its values, known as implant stability quotients, to monitor implant stability during healing. RFA is a form of personalized care that provides objective evidence that can guide the clinician in establishing safe and successful loading protocols.