Randomized controlled multi-centre study comparing shorter dental implants (6 mm) to longer dental implants...

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Oral Surgery
• Periodontology

Background:

• Limited ridge height in the posterior maxilla often necessitates sinus augmentation for dental implant placement.
• Comparing outcomes of shorter implants versus standard-length implants with sinus grafting is crucial for treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare implant survival and complication rates between shorter (6mm) and standard-length (11-15mm) implants with sinus augmentation.
• To evaluate outcomes up to 10 years of loading in patients with 5-7mm ridge height in the posterior maxilla.

Main Methods:

• 101 patients with 137 implants were randomized into two groups: shorter implants (GS) or standard-length implants with sinus grafting (GG).
• Outcomes assessed included implant survival, marginal bone levels (MBLs), biological and technical complications, and patient-reported outcomes (OHIP-49).
• Data were analyzed using non-parametric statistical methods over a 10-year follow-up period.

Main Results:

• At 10 years, implant survival rates were 96.0% for shorter implants and 100% for standard-length implants (p=0.24).
• Median MBLs were 0.00mm in both groups. Peri-implantitis rates were 4.2% (GS) and 13.3% (GG) (p=0.37).
• Technical complications were more frequent in the first 5 years. Patient-reported outcomes (OHIP-49) showed no significant inter-group differences.

Conclusions:

• Shorter dental implants offer similar 10-year survival rates compared to standard-length implants with sinus grafting.
• Shorter implants may represent a cost-effective alternative with potentially reduced patient morbidity.
• These findings support the use of shorter implants in the posterior maxilla with limited ridge height.