Front tooth replacement with Tübingen (Frialit) implants: a radiographical evaluation

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Dental implants are crucial for tooth replacement.
• Assessing long-term marginal bone height is vital for implant success.
• Tübingen implants are a specific type used in oral rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the marginal bone height around Tübingen implants in the anterior maxilla.
• To assess the long-term stability and bone resorption patterns of these implants.

Main Methods:

• Radiographic evaluation of 214 radiographs from 76 Tübingen implants in 56 patients.
• Marginal bone height was assessed by two observers using a 0-5 scoring system (0 = no resorption, 1-5 = 2.5 mm increments).
• Radiographs were taken at placement and at various intervals up to 72 months post-placement.

Main Results:

• 36 implants (47%) showed no or minimal bone resorption (scores 0 or 1).
• 22 implants (29%) had bone loss up to 5 mm (score 2).
• 8 implants (11%) showed bone loss up to 7.5 mm (score 3), with fewer implants experiencing greater loss; 5 implants were lost.

Conclusions:

• Tübingen implants demonstrate favorable marginal bone stability in the anterior maxilla over a 6-year period.
• The majority of implants exhibit minimal to moderate bone resorption, suggesting good clinical performance.
• Further long-term studies are needed for implants functioning beyond 72 months.