Review of expandable dental implants.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Implantology
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• The dental implant market is expanding, driven by aesthetic demands and well-being.
• Current dominant dental implant designs face challenges like initial stability loss and marginal bone resorption, particularly with immediate placement.
• Expandable dental implants (EDI) represent a less common but potentially advantageous alternative design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature, patents, and commercial devices related to expandable dental implants (EDI).
• To propose a classification system for EDI based on expansion mechanism and origin.
• To assess the current evidence regarding the primary stability provided by EDI.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search including prospective human trials, case reports, animal studies, and in silico research.
• Systematic review of published patents pertaining to expandable dental implant designs.
• Identification and analysis of commercially available expandable dental implant systems.

Main Results:

• A total of 15 relevant articles and 73 patents were identified.
• Two expandable dental implant systems are currently commercially available.
• Some expandable designs demonstrated good primary stability, though supporting evidence is currently limited.

Conclusions:

• Expandable dental implants (EDI) present a promising alternative to conventional designs, potentially enhancing primary stability.
• A proposed classification system aids in understanding different EDI mechanisms.
• Further clinical and biomechanical research is crucial to fully elucidate and optimize the benefits of EDI.