Randomized clinical study to compare implant stability and bone loss between different implant designs

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Biomaterials Science
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Implant macro geometric design is thought to influence primary stability and long-term bone maintenance.
• Evidence comparing tapered and straight implant designs regarding stability and bone loss is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the stability and crestal bone loss of tapered versus straight dental implants over 12 months.
• To evaluate the influence of implant design on outcomes in the posterior mandible.

Main Methods:

• A split-mouth randomized controlled trial involving 60 patients with missing mandibular molars.
• Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) measured implant stability quotient (ISQ) at placement and at 3, 6, and 12 months.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) assessed marginal bone loss at 12 months.

Main Results:

• Tapered implants demonstrated significantly higher mean ISQ values at placement (72.4±4.8 vs 68.9±5.2) and 3 months (75.1±4.2 vs 72.3±4.9).
• Marginal bone loss was significantly lower with tapered implants (0.82±0.31mm) compared to straight implants (1.34±0.45mm) at 12 months (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• The tapered implant design enhances initial stability and reduces crestal bone resorption.
• Tapered implants are a favorable option for the posterior mandibular region due to improved stability and bone preservation.