In vivo performance of zirconia and titanium implants: a histomorphometric study in mini pig maxillae

Objectives: To compare the bone tissue response to surface‐modified zirconia (ZrO₂) and titanium implants. Methods: Cylindrical low‐pressure injection moulded zirconia (ZrO₂) implants were produced with an acid‐etched surface. Titanium implants with identical shape, sandblasted and acid‐etched surface (SLA) served as controls. Eighteen adult miniature pigs received both implant types in the maxilla 6 months after extraction of the canines and incisors. The animals were euthanized after 4, 8 and 12 weeks and 16 zirconia and 18 titanium implants with the surrounding tissue were retrieved, embedded in methylmethacrylate and stained with Giemsa–Eosin. The stained sections were digitized and histomorphometrically analysed with regard to peri‐implant bone density (bone volume/total volume) and bone–implant contact (BIC) ratio. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann–Whitney' U‐test. Results: Histomorphometrical analysis showed direct osseous integration for both materials. ZrO₂ implants revealed mean peri‐implant bone density values of 60.4% (SD ± 9.9) at 4 weeks, 65.4% (SD ± 13.8) at 8 weeks, and 63.3% (SD ± 21.5) at 12 weeks after implantation, whereas Ti‐SLA implants demonstrated mean values of 61.1% (SD ± 6.2), 63.6% (SD ± 6.8) and 68.2% (SD ± 5.8) at corresponding time intervals. Concerning the BIC ratio, the mean values for ZrO₂ ranged between 67.1% (SD ± 21.1) and 70% (SD ± 14.5) and for Ti‐SLA between 64.7% (SD ± 9.4) and 83.7% (SD ± 10.3). For the two parameters investigated, no significant differences between both types of implants could be detected at any time point. Conclusion: The results indicate that there was no difference in osseointegration between ZrO₂ implants and Ti‐SLA controls regarding peri‐implant bone density and BIC ratio. To cite this article :
Gahlert M, Roehling S, Sprecher CM, Kniha H, Milz S, Bormann K. In vivo performance of zirconia and titanium implants: a histomorphometric study in mini pig maxillae.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23 , 2012; 281–286.
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02157.x     

Stability, marginal bone loss and survival of standard and modified sand-blasted, acid-etched implants in bilateral edentulous spaces: a prospective 15-month evaluation

Objectives: Chemical modification of the already proven sand‐blasted and acid‐etched (SLA) implant had increased its surface wettability and consequent early‐term osseointegration characteristics. The aim of this clinical trial was to compare the stability changes, success, survival, peri‐implant parameters and marginal bone loss (MBL) of the early‐loaded standard (SLA) and modified sand‐blasted, acid‐etched (modSLA) implants. Material and methods: A total of 96 SLA and modSLA implants were placed in a bi‐lateral, cross‐arch position to the jaws of 22 patients. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was used to measure the implant stability in the surgery and following healing after 1, 3 and 6 weeks. At the stage of loading, a panoramic X‐ray was obtained and RFA measurement was repeated for all implants. Implants were restored by metal–ceramic crowns and followed for 1 year to determine the success, survival rate, peri‐implant parameters and MBL. Results were compared by one‐ and two‐way ANOVA, log‐rank test and generalized linear mixed models (P<0.05). Results: One modSLA implant was lost after 3 weeks following the surgery yielding to a 100 and 97.91% success rate for SLA and modSLA implants, respectively (P=0.323). At the loading stage, modSLA implants showed significantly lower MBL (0.18 ± 0.05 mm) than SLA implants (0.22 ± 0.06 mm; P=0.002). In the loading stage, RFA value of the modSLA implants (60.42 ± 6.82) was significantly higher than the both implant types in the surgical stage (55.46 ± 8.29 and 56.68 ± 8.19), and following 1 (56.08 ± 7.01 and 55.60 ± 9.07) and 3 weeks of healing (55.94 ± 5.95 and 55.40 ± 6.50 for SLA and modSLA implants, respectively). Conclusions: modSLA implants demonstrated a better stability and a reduced MBL at the loading stage. Both SLA and modSLA implants demonstrated a favorable success and survival at the end of 15‐month follow‐up. To cite this article :
Karabuda ZC, Abdel‐Haq J. Arιsan V. Stability, marginal bone loss and survival of standard and modified sand‐blasted, acid‐etched implants in bilateral edentulous spaces: a prospective 15‐month evaluation.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 22 , 2011; 840–849
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.02065.x     

Effects of implant design on marginal bone changes around early loaded, chemically modified, sandblasted Acid-etched-surfaced implants: a histologic analysis in dogs

Background: A minimal marginal bone loss around implants during early healing has been considered acceptable. However, the preservation of the marginal bone is related to soft tissue stability and esthetics. Implant designs and surfaces were evaluated to determine their impact on the behavior of the crestal bone. The purpose of this study is to evaluate histologic marginal bone level changes around early loaded, chemically modified, sandblasted acid‐etched–surfaced implants with a machined collar (MC) or no MC (NMC). Methods: Three months after a tooth extraction, 72 sandblasted acid‐etched chemically modified implants were placed in six dogs. Thirty‐six implants had NMC, and 36 implants had a 2.8‐mm MC. All implants were loaded 21 days after placement. For histologic analyses, specimens were obtained at 3 and 12 months. Assessments of the percentage of the total bone‐to‐implant contact and linear measurements of the distance from the shoulder of the implant to the first bone‐to‐implant contact (fBIC) were performed. Based on fBIC measurements, estimates of bone loss were obtained for each implant. A mixed‐model analysis of variance was used to assess the effects of implant type and sacrifice time. Results: All implants achieved osseointegration. The mean bone gain observed around NMC early loaded implants (at 3 months: 0.13 ± 0.37 mm; at 12 months: 0.13 ± 0.44 mm) was significantly different from the mean bone loss for MC early loaded implants (at 3 months: ?0.32 ± 0.70 mm; at 12 months: ?0.79 ± 0.35 mm) at 3 months (P = 0.003) and 12 months (P <0.001). No infrabony component was present at the marginal fBIC around NMC implants in most cases. There were no statistically significant differences among the means of total bone contact for implant types. Conclusions: Chemically modified, sandblasted acid‐etched–surfaced implants with NMC presented crestal bone gain after 3 and 12 months under loading conditions in the canine mandible. The implant design and surface were determinants in the marginal bone level preservation.     

Effect of grafting materials on osseointegration of dental implants surrounded by circumferential bone defects. An experimental study in the dog

Aims: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of gap width and graft placement on bone healing around implants placed into simulated extraction sockets in the mandibles of four beagle dogs. Materials and methods: Four Ti‐Unite^® implants (13 mm × 3.3 mm) were placed on each side of the mandible. Three implants were surrounded by a 1.35 mm circumferential and a 5 mm deep gap around the coronal portion of the implants. A fourth implant was inserted conventionally into both sides of the mandibles as a positive control. The gaps were filled with either Bio‐Oss^®, autogenous bone or with a blood clot alone. The study design was balanced for animal, side and modality. Ground sections were prepared from biopsies taken at 3 months, and computer‐aided histometric measurements of bone/implant contact and area of bone within threads were made for the coronal 5 mm. Data were analysed using analysis of variance. Results: The mean bone/implant contact was 9.8 mm for the control and ranged from 9.3 to 11.3 mm for the three test modalities. The corresponding values for area within threads were 1 mm² and 1–1.2 mm². Modality had a significant effect on both bone/implant contact (F=16.9; P<0.0001) and area within threads (F=16.7; P<0.0001). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that both autogenous bone graft and Bio‐Oss^® played an important role in the amount of hard tissue fill and osseointegration occurring within marginal bone defects around implants.     

Relationship between the bone density estimated by cone-beam computed tomography and the primary stability of dental implants

Objectives: The aims of this study were to objectively assess bone quality with density values obtained by cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine the correlations between bone density and primary stability of dental implants. Material and methods: Eighteen Straumann implants were inserted into 18 fresh femoral heads of swine. The bone densities of implant recipient sites were preoperatively determined by the density value using CBCT. The maximum insertion torque value of each implant was recorded using a digital torque meter. Resonance frequency, which represented a quantitative unit called the implant stability quotient (ISQ), was measured using an Osstell^® Mentor immediately after the implant placement. Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to evaluate the correlations among density values, insertion torques, and ISQs at implant placement. Results: The density values ranged from 98 to 902. The mean density value, insertion torque, and ISQ were 591±226, 13.4±5.2 Ncm, and 67.1±8.1, respectively. Statistically significant correlations were found between the density values and insertion torque (r_s=0.796, P<0.001), density values and ISQ (r_s=0.529, P=0.024), and insertion torque and ISQ (r_s=0.758, P<0.001). Conclusions: The bone quality evaluated by specific CBCT showed a high correlation with the primary stability of the implants. Hence, preoperative density value estimations by CBCT may allow clinicians to predict implant stability. Whether the density values obtained by the CBCT device used in the present study could be applied to other devices requires further elucidation. To cite this article:
Isoda K, Ayukawa Y, Tsukiyama Y, Sogo M, Matsushita Y, Koyano K. Relationship between the bone density estimated by cone‐beam computed tomography and the primary stability of dental implants.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23 , 2012; 832–836
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02203.x     

Optimal microvessel density from composite graft of autogenous maxillary cortical bone and anorganic bovine bone in sinus augmentation: influence of clinical variables

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the microvessel density (MVD) of intra‐sinus grafts after 6 months of wound healing and to study the relationship between revascularization processes and patient clinical variables and habits. Material and methods: We performed 45 maxillary sinus augmentations with different implant placements in 25 consecutive patients, obtaining bone cores of the grafted area for histological, histomorphometric and immunohistochemical study. Biopsies were also taken from pristine bone in the posterior maxilla (control). Results: All implants survived at 24 months. Biopsies of sinus augmentation areas showed significantly greater remodeling activity vs. pristine bone, with significantly more osteoid lines. The morphometry study revealed 34.88±15.2% vital bone, 32.02±15.1% non‐mineralized tissue and 33.08±25.4% remnant anorganic bovine bone particles. The number of CD34‐positive vessels was 86.28±55.52/mm² in graft tissue vs. 31.52±13.69/mm² in native tissue (P=0.002, Mann–Whitney U=46). The larger amount of non‐mineralized tissue in grafts was directly correlated with a higher MVD (r=0.482, P=0.0001, Pearson's test). MVD was affected by the presence of periodontitis or tobacco and alcohol consumption. Conclusion: The angiogenesis and revascularization obtained by this type of graft achieve adequate tissue remodeling for osseointegration and are influenced by periodontal disease and tobacco or alcohol consumption. To cite this article:
Galindo‐Moreno P, Padial‐Molina M, Fernández‐Barbero JE, Mesa F, Rodríguez‐Martínez D, O'Valle F. Optimal microvessel density from composite graft of autogenous maxillary cortical bone and anorganic bovine bone in sinus augmentation: influence of clinical variables.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21 , 2010; 221–227
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01827.x     

Impact of Platform Switching on Peri‐Implant Bone Remodeling around Short Implants in the Posterior Region, 1‐Year Results from a Split‐Mouth Clinical Trial

Aim: To assess the effect of platform switching on peri‐implant bone remodeling around short implants (8.5 mm) placed in the resorbed posterior mandibular and maxillary region of partially edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: Seventeen patients with one or more missing teeth at both sides in the posterior region were, according to a split‐mouth design, randomly assigned to be treated with a platform‐matched (control) implant on the one side and a platform‐switched implant (test) on the other side. A total of 62 short implants (8.5 mm) with a dual‐acid etched surface with nanometer‐sized calcium phosphate particles was placed. Follow‐up visits were conducted one month and one year after placing the implant crown. Outcome measures were interproximal bone level changes, implant survival and clinical parameters. Results: One year after loading, peri‐implant bone remodeling around test implants (0.53 ± 0.54 mm) was significant less than around control implants (0.85 ± 0.65 mm; p = .003). With regard to implant survival and clinical parameters no significant differences were observed between test and control implants. Conclusions: This study suggested that peri‐implant bone remodeling is affected by platform switching. One year after loading, interproximal bone levels were better maintained at implants restored according to the platform switching concept.     

Influence of a machined collar on crestal bone changes around titanium implants: a histometric study in the canine mandible

Background: It has been shown that peri‐implant crestal bone reactions are influenced by both a rough–smooth implant border in one‐piece, non‐submerged, as well as an interface (microgap [MG] between implant/abutment) in two‐piece butt‐joint, submerged and non‐submerged implants being placed at different levels in relation to the crest of the bone. According to standard surgical procedures, the rough–smooth implant border for implants with a smooth collar should be aligned with the crest of the bone exhibiting a smooth collar adjacent to peri‐implant soft tissues. No data, however, are available for implants exhibiting a sandblasted, large‐grit and acid‐etched (SLA) surface all the way to the top of a non‐submerged implant. Thus, the purpose of this study is to histometrically examine crestal bone changes around machined versus SLA‐surfaced implant collars in a side‐by‐side comparison. Methods: A total of 60 titanium implants (30 machined collars and 30 SLA collars) were randomly placed in edentulous mandibular areas of five foxhounds forming six different subgroups (implant subgroups A to F). The implants in subgroups A to C had a machined collar (control), whereas the implants in subgroups D to F were SLA‐treated all the way to the top (MG level; test). Furthermore, the MGs of the implants were placed at different levels in relation to the crest of the bone: the implants in subgroups A and E were 2 mm above the crest, in subgroups C and D 1 mm above, in subgroup B 3 mm above, and in subgroup F at the bone crest level. For all implants, abutment healing screws were connected the day of surgery. These caps were loosened and immediately retightened monthly. At 6 months, animals were sacrificed and non‐decalcified histology was analyzed by evaluating peri‐implant crestal bone levels. Results: For implants in subgroup A, the estimated mean crestal bone loss (± SD) was ?0.52 ± 0.40 mm; in subgroup B, +0.16 ± 0.40 mm (bone gain); in subgroup C, ?1.28 ± 0.21 mm; in subgroup D, ?0.43 ± 0.43 mm; in subgroup E, ?0.03 ± 0.48 mm; and in subgroup F, ?1.11 ± 0.27 mm. Mean bone loss for subgroup A was significantly greater than for subgroup E (P = 0.034) and bone loss for subgroup C was significantly greater than for subgroup D (P <0.001). Conclusions: Choosing a completely SLA‐surfaced non‐submerged implant can reduce the amount of peri‐implant crestal bone loss and reduce the distance from the MG to the first bone–implant contact around unloaded implants compared to implants with a machined collar. Furthermore, a slightly exposed SLA surface during implant placement does not seem to compromise the overall hard and soft tissue integration and, in some cases, results in coronal bone formation in this canine model.     

Space-providing expanded polytetrafluoroethylene devices define alveolar augmentation at dental implants induced by recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 in an absorbable collagen sponge carrier

Background: Surgical implantation of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP‐2) in an absorbable collagen sponge carrier (ACS) significantly enhances bone regeneration in horizontal alveolar defects; however, sufficient quantities of bone for implant dentistry are not routinely obtained. Purpose: The objective of this proof‐of‐principle study was to evaluate the potential of a space‐providing macroporous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) device to control volume and geometry of rhBMP‐2/ACS‐induced alveolar bone augmentation. Materials and Methods: Bilateral critical‐size supra‐alveolar periimplant defects were created in four Hound‐Labrador mongrel dogs. Two turned and one surface‐etched 10 mm titanium dental implants were placed 5 mm into the surgically reduced alveolar ridge creating 5 mm supra‐alveolar defects. rhBMP‐2/ACS (0.4 mg rhBMP‐2) was placed around the exposed dental implants. Additionally, one jaw quadrant in each animal was randomly assigned to receive the domeshaped macroporous ePTFE device. Mucoperiosteal flaps were advanced for primary wound closure. The animals were euthanized at 8 weeks post surgery for histometric analysis. Results: The space‐providing macroporous ePTFE device defined the volume and geometry of rhBMP‐2/ACS‐induced bone formation, whereas bone formation at sites receiving rhBMP‐2/ACS alone varied considerably. Vertical bone gain at turned dental implants averaged (SD) 4.7 ± 0.2 mm at sites receiving rhBMP‐2/ACS and the ePTFE device compared with 3.5 ± 0.9 mm at sites receiving rhBMP‐2/ACS only. The corresponding values for rhBMP‐2/ACS‐induced bone area were 9.6 ± 0.7 mm ² and 7.5 ± 6.2 mm ². There was a highly significant correlation between induced bone area and the space provided by the ePTFE device (p .001). There was no difference in induced bone density or bone‐implant contact between the two technologies. These observations were consistent with those observed at surface‐etched dental implants. Conclusions: The data from this study suggest that a space‐providing macroporous ePTFE device defines rhBMP‐2/ACS‐induced alveolar augmentation to provide adequate bone quantities for implant dentistry. The dental implant surface technology does not appear to substantially influence bone formation.     

Efficacy of Using PDGF and Xenograft With or Without Collagen Membrane for Bone Regeneration Around Immediate Implants With Induced Dehiscence‐Type Defects: A Microcomputed Tomographic Study in Dogs

Background: Use of collagen membrane (CM) with xenograft and recombinant human platelet‐derived growth factor (rhPDGF) in guided bone regeneration (GBR) is debatable. The aim of this microcomputed tomographic experiment was to assess the efficacy of using PDGF and xenograft (with or without CM) for GBR around immediate implants with dehiscence defects. Methods: Ten beagle dogs underwent atraumatic bilateral second and fourth premolar extractions from both arches. A standardized dehiscence defect (6 × 3 mm) was created on the buccal bone and immediate implants were placed in distal sockets in each site. Animals were randomly divided into three groups: 1) group 1, xenograft with rhPDGF was placed and covered with CM; 2) group 2, xenograft with rhPDGF was placed over the defects; and 3) group 3, four immediate implants were associated with dehiscence (controls). After 16 weeks, animals were sacrificed and jaw segments were assessed for buccal bone thickness (BBT), buccal bone volume (BBV), vertical bone height (VBH), and bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) using microcomputed tomography. Results: BBT was higher in group 2 (1.533 ± 0.89 mm) than group 1 (0.745 ± 0.322 mm) (P <0.001) and group 3 (0.257 ± 0.232 mm) (P <0.05). BBV was higher in group 2 (67.87 ± 19.83 mm³) than group 1 (42.47 ± 6.78 mm³) (P <0.05) and group 3 (19.12 ± 4.06 mm³) (P <0.001). VBH was higher in group 2 (6.36 ± 1.37 mm) than group 3 (0.00 ± 0.00 mm) (P <0.001). VBH was higher in group 1 (3.91 ± 2.68 mm) than group 3 (0.00 ± 0.00 mm) (P <0.05). BIC was higher in group 2 (67.25% ± 13.42%) than group 1 (36.25% ± 12.78%) (P <0.05) and group 3 (30.25% ± 7.27%) (P <0.01). Conclusion: GBR around immediate implants with dehiscence defects using PDGF and xenograft alone resulted in higher BBT, BBV, VBH, and BIC than when performed in combination with CM.     

Relations between the bone density values from computerized tomography, and implant stability parameters: a clinical study of 230 regular platform implants

Aims: The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between bone density, insertion torque, and implant stability at implant placement. Materials and Methods: One‐hundred and eight patients were treated with 230 Brånemark System implants. A computerized tomography (CT) machine was used for pre‐operative evaluation of the jaw bone for each patient. The maximum insertion torque values were recorded with the OsseoCare equipment. Implant stability measurements were performed with the Osstell machine for only 142 implants. Results: The mean bone density and insertion torque values were 721±254 Hounsfield unit (HU) and 39.1±7 N cm for 230 implants, and the correlation was significant (r=0.664, p<0.001). The mean bone density, insertion torque, and resonance frequency analysis values were 751±257 HU, 39.4±7 Nc m, and 70.5±7 implant stability quotient (ISQ), respectively, for 142 implants. Statistically significant correlations were found between bone density and insertion torque values (p<0.001); bone density and ISQ values (p<0.001); and insertion torque and ISQ values (p<0.001). Conclusion: The bone density values from pre‐operative CT examination may provide an objective assessment of bone quality, and significant correlations between bone density and implant stability parameters may help clinicians to predict primary stability before implant insertion.     

Bone regeneration in dehiscence-type defects at non-submerged and submerged chemically modified (SLActive) and conventional SLA titanium implants: an immunohistochemical study in dogs

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate bone regeneration in dehiscence‐type defects at non‐submerged and submerged titanium implants with chemically modified (mod) and conventional sandblasted/acid‐etched (SLA) surfaces. Material and Methods: Standardized buccal dehiscence defects were surgically created following implant site preparation in both the upper and lower jaws of 12 beagle dogs. Both types of implants were randomly assigned to either a non‐submerged or a submerged healing procedure. After 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks, dissected blocks were processed for histomorphometrical [e.g. new bone height (NBH), per cent linear fill (PLF), percentage of bone to implant contact (BIC‐D), area of new bone fill (BF)] and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: At 8 weeks, non‐submerged and submerged SLA implants revealed significantly lower mean NBH (1.1±0.8–1.9±1.2 mm), PLF (27.7±20.3–46.0±28.5%), BIC‐D (26.8±10.4–46.2±16.2%), and BF (1.3±0.9–3.4±2.8 mm²) values than respective modSLA implants [NBH (2.6±0.8–4.3±0.1 mm), PLF (64.2±19.4–107.2±4.7%), BIC‐D (67.5±18.8–82.1±14.8%), BF (2.9±1.0–6.7±1.1 mm²)]. Within modSLA groups, significantly highest BF values were observed at submerged implants. Conclusion: It was concluded that (i) modSLA titanium surfaces promoted bone regeneration in acute‐type buccal dehiscence defects and (ii) a submerged healing procedure improved the outcome of healing additionally.     

Immediate vs. early loading of dental implants: 3‐year results of a randomized controlled clinical trial

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to test whether or not immediately loaded implants exhibit the same survival rates as early loaded implants. Material and methods: Eleven patients with bilateral free end mandibles were randomly assigned to treatment either with immediately (test) or early loaded implants (control). Test implants received provisionals in occlusion on the day of surgery, control implants 6 weeks later. Parameters assessed included implant stability quotient (ISQ), plaque, prosthesis stability and radiographs at baseline (implant insertion), 1 and 3 years. The statistical analysis was performed by means of Student's paired t‐test and Wilcoxon's signed‐rank test. The level of significance was set at P<0.05. Results: After a mean observation period of 39.8 months (36.7–53.1), three test implants were lost in two patients resulting in a survival rate of 85% compared with 100% for control implants. At baseline, the mean marginal bone level was significantly higher at test implants (mean=0.36 mm, SD ±0.5) compared with control implants (1.08±0.37 mm). For both test and control implants, the bone level significantly decreased from baseline to 3 years (test: 1.51±0.79 mm; control: 0.89±0.94 mm). The bone loss until 3 years was not significantly different between test and control group. There was no significant difference for ISQ both at test and control implants between baseline (test: 63.59±4.62 mm, control: 65.35±7.43 mm) and 3 years (test: 66.47±7.47 mm, control 68.80±8.75 mm). Conclusions: Immediate loading was associated with a lower implant survival rate. Although the test implants were placed with increased sink depth compared with the control implants, the marginal bone levels were not different between test and control at 3 years. To cite this article:
Zembi? A, Glauser R, Khraisat A, Hämmerle CHF. Immediate vs. early loading of dental implants: 3‐year results of a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21 , 2010; 481–489.
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01898.x     

Evaluation of a New Titanium‐Zirconium Dental Implant: A Biomechanical and Histological Comparative Study in the Mini Pig

Background: Titanium zirconium alloy with 13–17% zirconium (TiZr1317) shows significantly better mechanical attributes than pure Ti with respect to elongation and fatigue strength. This material may be suitable for thin implants and implant components exposed to high mechanical constraints. Purpose: The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that TiZr1317 and Ti implants show comparable osseointegration and stability. Materials and Methods: The mandibular premolars (P1, P2, P3) and the first molar (M1) in 12 adult miniature pigs were extracted 3 months prior to the study. Six specially designed implants made from Ti (commercially pure, Grade 4) or TiZr1317 (Roxolid®, Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) with a hydrophilic sandblasted and acid‐etched (SLActive, Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) surface were placed in each mandible; three standard implants modified for evaluation of removal torque (RT) in one side and three bone‐chamber implants for histologic observations in the contralateral side. RT tests were performed after 4 weeks when also the bone chamber implants and surrounding tissue were biopsied for histologic analyses in ground sections. Results: The RT results indicated significantly higher stability (p = 0.013) for TiZr1317 (230.9 ± 22.4 Ncm) than for Ti implants (204.7 ± 24.0 Ncm). The histology showed similar osteoconductive properties for both implant types. Histomorphometric measurements showed a statistically significant higher (p = 0.023) bone area within the chamber for the TiZr1317 implants (45.5 ± 13.2%) than did the Ti implants (40.2 ± 15.2%). No difference was observed concerning the bone to implant contact between the groups with 72.3 ± 20.5% for Ti and 70.2 ± 17.3% for TiZr1317 implants. Conclusion: It is concluded that the TiZr1317 implant with a hydrophilic sandblasted and acid‐etched surface showed similar or even stronger bone tissue responses than the Ti control implant     

Assessment of correlation between computerized tomography values of the bone, and maximum torque and resonance frequency values at dental implant placement

summary The aim of this study was to determine the bone density in the designated implant sites using computerized tomography (CT), the fastening torque values of dental implants, and the implant stability values using resonance frequency analysis. Further aim was to evaluate a possible correlation between bone density, fastening torque and implant stability. Eighty‐five patients were treated with 158 Brånemark System implants. CT machine was used for preoperative evaluation of the jawbone for each patient, and bone densities were recorded in Hounsfield units (HU). The fastening torque values of all implants were recorded with the OsseoCare equipment. Implant stability measurements were performed with the Osstell machine. The average bone density and fastening torque values were 751·4 ± 256 HU and 39·7 ± 7 Ncm for 158 implants. The average primary implant stability was 73·2 ± 6 ISQ for seventy implants. Strong correlations were observed between the bone density, fastening torque and implant stability values of Brånemark System TiUnite MKIII implants at implant placement (P < 0·001). These results strengthen the hypothesis that it may be possible to predict and quantify initial implant stability and bone quality from pre‐surgical CT diagnosis.     

Turned, machined versus double-etched dental implants in vivo

Background: Positive effects on the clinical outcome of moderately rough implant surfaces are described. Intercomparison of clinical data, however, is rarely found. Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical results of two macroscopically identical implants, the one with a turned, machined and the other with an etched surface. Materials and Methods: In a retrospective cohort study, the included implants followed the criteria: standard surgical protocol, >12 months in situ; minimally rough self‐threading implants with a turned, machined surface (Mk II^TM Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden], n=210); etched implants of the same macrodesign (3i^TM Implant Innovations Inc., Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA], n=151), length ≥ 10 mm. Clinical data and implant success were rated. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) and Periotest® (Siemens AG, Bensheim, Germany) were measured and related to the corresponding implant survival rate in the respective group. Results: The total number of implants was 361, of which 264 (73%) were subject to clinical reexamination. RFA and Periotest could be recorded in 25% of the implants. Neither clinically relevant nor statistically significant differences between the surface designs were found in the RFA (64 ± 8.6 vs 63 ± 9.7), in Periotest (?2 ± 3.3 vs ?1 ± 5.1), and in mean survival periods (49 months, 95% confidence interval CI]: 46–51 months, for the turned vs 46 months, 95% CI: 43–49 months, for the double‐etched implant). After osteoplastic procedures, a significantly higher rate of implant losses in the turned, machined implant group was observed (17 vs 1) with a mean survival period of 43 (40–46) months for the turned and 46 (45–48) months for the double‐etched implants. Conclusion: No difference between implants with two different minimally rough surfaces was found. A positive effect of surface roughness is observed in poor quality bone, but the pivotal proof of this effect is still lacking.     

Alveolar ridge augmentation using implants coated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2: histologic observations

Background: Studies using ectopic rodent, orthotopic canine, and non‐human primate models show that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) coated onto titanium surfaces induce local bone formation. The objective of this study was to examine the ability of recombinant human BMP‐2 (rhBMP‐2) coated onto a titanium porous oxide implant surface to stimulate local bone formation including osseointegration and vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge. Material and Methods: Bilateral, critical‐size, 5 mm, supra‐alveolar, peri‐implant defects were created in 12 young adult Hound Labrador mongrel dogs. Six animals received implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 0.75 or 1.5 mg/ml, and six animals received implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 3.0 mg/ml or uncoated control. Treatments were randomized between jaw quadrants. The mucoperiosteal flaps were advanced, adapted and sutured to submerge the implants for primary intention healing. The animals received fluorescent bone markers at weeks 3, 4, 7 and 8 post‐surgery when they were euthanized for histologic evaluation. Results: Jaw quadrants receiving implants coated with rhBMP‐2 exhibited gradually regressing swelling that became hard to palpate disguising the contours of the implants. The histologic evaluation showed robust bone formation reaching or exceeding the implant platform. The newly formed bone exhibited characteristics of the adjoining resident Type II bone including cortex formation for sites receiving implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 0.75 or 1.5 mg/ml. Sites receiving implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 3.0 mg/ml exhibited more immature trabecular bone formation, seroma formation and peri‐implant bone remodelling resulting in undesirable implant displacement. Control implants exhibited minimal, if any, bone formation. Thus, implants coated with rhBMP‐2 at 0.75, 1.5 and 3.0 mg/ml exhibited significant bone formation (height and area) compared with the sham‐surgery control averaging (±SD) 4.4±0.4, 4.2±0.7 and 4.2±1.2 versus 0.8±0.3 mm; and 5.0±2.2, 5.6±2.2 and 7.4±3.5 versus 0.7±0.3 mm², respectively (p<0.01). All the treatment groups exhibited clinically relevant osseointegration. Conclusions: rhBMP‐2 coated onto titanium porous oxide implant surfaces induced clinically relevant local bone formation including vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge and osseointegration. Higher concentrations/doses were associated with untoward effects.     

Osseointegration and stability of a modified sand-blasted acid-etched implant: an experimental pilot study in sheep

Objective: The aim of this pilot study was to compare the early‐term osseointegration characteristics of standard (SLA) and modified sand‐blasted and acid‐etched (modSLA) implants in an experimental animal model. Material and methods: A total of 30 SLA and modSLA implants were placed to the tibiae of three sheep and the insertion torque value (ITV) and resonance frequency analysis (RFA) measurements were performed. RFA measurement was repeated on 3 and 6 weeks healed implants after which the animals were sacrificed for histomorphometric analysis. Bone‐to‐implant contact was assessed on the non‐decalcified sections. Six weeks healed implants were also subjected to the reverse torque test (RTT). Results were analyzed by the Friedman test, Kruskal–Wallis test and Spearman rank correlation test. Results: All implants reached to a strong primary stability with a mean 36.13 ± 2.47 and 35.47 ± 2.85 N/cm ITV. In the surgical stage, RFA values for SLA and modSLA implants were found to be 72.27 ± 3.17 and 71.6 ± 2.87, respectively. After 3 weeks of healing, mean BIC% (80.64 ± 13.89%) and RFA value (76.8 ± 1.14) of modSLA implants were significantly higher (P=0.0002) than that of SLA implants (64.39 ± 21.2 BIC% and 74.2 ± 4.76 RFA). However, no statistically significant difference between SLA and modSLA implants was recorded after 6 weeks of healing. Both implants revealed similar results in the RTT test (115.2 ± 4.14 and 117 ± 4.47 N/cm for SLA and modSLA implants, respectively). No correlation was found between RFA and BIC%. Conclusion: Within the limits of this pilot study, it can be concluded that modSLA implants achieve a higher bone contact and stability at earlier time points when compared with SLA implants. To cite this article:
Abdel‐Haq J, Karabuda CZ, Arιsan V, Mutlu Z, Kürkçü M. Osseointegration and stability of a modified sand‐blasted acid‐etched implant: an experimental pilot study in sheep.
Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 22 , 2011; 265–274.
doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01990.x     

Vitamin D and Bone Physiology: Demonstration of Vitamin D Deficiency in an Implant Osseointegration Rat Model

Purpose: The patient population varies in nutritional deficiencies, which may confound the host response to biomaterials. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a common deficiency of vitamin D on implant osseointegration in the rat model. Materials and Methods: Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were maintained under the cessation of vitamin D intake and UV exposure. The serum levels of 1,25(OH)₂D₃, 25 OHD₃, Ca, and P were determined. Miniature cylindrical Ti6Al4V implants (2‐mm long, 1‐mm diameter) were fabricated with double acid‐etched (DAE) surface or modified DAE with discrete crystalline deposition (DCD) of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. DAE and DCD implants were placed in the femurs of vitamin D‐insufficient and control rats. After 14 days of healing, the femur‐implant samples were subjected to implant push‐in test and nondecalcified histology. The surfaces of recovered implant specimens after the push‐in test were further evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: The decreased serum level of 25 OHD₃ demonstrated the establishment of vitamin D insufficiency in this model. The implant push‐in test revealed that DAE and DCD implants in the vitamin D‐insufficient group (15.94 ± 8.20 N, n = 7; 15.63 ± 3.96 N, n = 7, respectively) were significantly lower than those of the control group (24.99 ± 7.92 N, n = 7, p < 0.05; 37.48 ± 17.58 N, n = 7, p < 0.01, respectively). The transcortical bone‐to‐implant contact ratio (BIC) was also significantly decreased in the vitamin D‐insufficient group. SEM analyses further suggested that the calcified tissues remaining next to the implant surface after push‐in test appeared unusually fragmented. Conclusions: The effect of vitamin D insufficiency significantly impairing the establishment of Ti6Al4V implant osseointegration in vivo was unexpectedly profound. The outcome of Ti‐based endosseous implants may be confounded by the increasing prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in our patient population.     

Novel Implant Design Improves Implant Survival in Multirooted Extraction Sites: A Preclinical Pilot Study

Background: The primary aim is to evaluate clinical, radiographic, and histologic parameters of novel implants with “three roots” design that were inserted into fresh multirooted extraction sockets. A secondary aim is to compare this new implant to standard root‐form dental implants. Methods: Immediate implantation of novel or standard design 6 × 6‐mm implants was performed bilaterally into multirooted sockets in mandibles of mini‐pigs. Twelve weeks later, clinical, radiographic, stability, histomorphometric, and microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) analyses were performed. Results: Survival rates were significantly higher in the test implants compared with control (92.8% versus 33.3%, respectively; P <0.001). Bone loss was greater in the control compared with the test by sounding (mean 3.42 ± 0.68 versus 1.96 ± 0.34 mm) and radiography (mean 3.35 ± 0.62 versus 2.27 ± 0.33 mm). Histologic and micro‐CT analyses demonstrated bone fill in the inner part of the test implants. Moreover, bone‐to‐implant contact was higher in the test implants (55.50% ± 3.68% versus 42.47% ± 9.89%). Contrary to the clinical, radiographic, and histomorphometric results, resonance frequency analysis measurements were greater in the control group (77.74 ± 3.21 implant stability quotient [ISQ]) compared with the test group (31.09 ± 0.28 ISQ), P = 0.008. Conclusions: The novel design implants resulted in significantly greater survival rate in multirooted extraction sites. Further studies will be required to validate these findings.