Swiss researcher reports that short dental implants can avoid surgeries, save time, reduce costs, and eliminate complications

Use of short dental implants in some patients can avoid major surgeries, save time, reduce costs, and eliminate possible complications associated with grafting procedures, a Swiss researcher reported at the 27th Annual Meeting of the Academy of Osseointegration (AO).

“In cases with a reduced ridge height in the posterior maxilla, sinus grafting in combination with implant placement is the treatment of choice,” explained Dr. Daniel S. Thoma, Zurich, Switzerland, as he reported the results of a randomized, controlled, multicenter study comparing short implants (6 mm) to standard length implants (11-15 mm) with sinus grafting. “Sinus grafting is associated with an increased risk for implant failures and patient morbidity,” he added.

All 100 patients in the study had their implants placed and entered the follow-up phase with loading at six months. No implants were lost, resulting in a 100% implant survival rate in both treatment groups.

“Based on these preliminary findings, both treatment modalities were safe and predictable. This was demonstrated by a 100% implant survival rate, the absence of biological complications and only one minor technical complication,” Dr. Thoma reported.

Complete program information is available through the Academy’s website.

With more than 6,000 members in 70 countries around the world, the Academy of Osseointegration is the world’s leading dental implant organization. Its goal is to advance the field of osseointegrated implants by fostering collaboration between representatives of different dental disciplines — oral surgery, periodontics, prosthodontics and general practice — through clinical and evidence-based research and education.

Founded in 1985, it provides a focus for the rapidly advancing biotechnology involving the natural bond between bone and certain alloplastic reconstructive materials. In dentistry, the primary application is replacing missing teeth by affixing a titanium implant into the jawbone, then securing an artificial tooth into the implant that will look, feel, and function like a natural tooth.