Current research: small-diameter implants continue to gain positive research support
By Gordon J. Christensen, DDS, MSD, PhD
Thirty-one implants with a maximum diameter of 3.0 mm were placed in 17 patients who had limited tooth-to-tooth space. Standardized radiographs were made at six and 12 months accompanied with conventional measurement of soft-tissue and bone conditions. Slight bone loss was shown at six months with no significant progression after that time.
The overall survival rate was 96.7%. The investigators concluded that “the use of one-piece narrow-diameter immediately loaded implants appears to be an effective prosthetic treatment for areas of limited space.”
Reddy MS, O’Neal J, Haigh S, et al. Initial clinical efficacy of 3 mm implants immediately placed into function in conditions of limited spacing. Int J Oral Maxillofac Implants. 2008; 23(2):281-288.
Dr. Gordon Christensen comments: Mini implants are viable options for those patients who may not be able to receive conventional-diameter implants. I welcome you to take our popular course on mini implants. Visit www.pccdental.com for more information.
Gordon J. Christensen Guide for Preferred Clients Mar./Apr. 2011; Vol. 16 Issue 2
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Author bio
Dr. Gordon Christensen is a practicing prosthodontist in Provo, Utah, and a diplomate for the American Board of Prosthodontics. He is the founder and director of Practical Clinical Courses, an international continuing education organization initiated in 1981 for dental professionals. Dr. Christensen is a cofounder (with his wife, Rella) and senior consultant of CLINICIANS REPORT (formerly Clinical Research Associates), which has conducted research in all areas of dentistry since 1976. Dr. Christensen is an adjunct professor for Brigham Young University and the University of Utah.
