Comparison of Marginal Bone Loss in Conventional Versus Osseodensification Implant Site Preparation: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: Marginal bone loss is a multifactorial problem affecting the health and longevity of dental implants placed throughout the world. A novel drilling system has been developed that allows for the densification of bone around dental implants through a non-subtractive drilling protocol which allows for higher initial insertion torques. Materials and Methods: Patients with implants that were placed with either conventional or osseodensification drilling protocols that had been restored for at least 1 year were radiographically and clinically re-evaluated. Radiographic marginal bone levels were measured on the mesial and distal of implants and compared from the time of restoration to ≥12 months post-loading. Pocket probing depth (PD), presence/absence of plaque, presence/absence of bleeding on probing (BoP), and keratinized mucosa (KM) were recorded. Results: Twenty-two patients with 39 implants were evaluated. The groups were not significantly different in the amount of marginal bone loss present at baseline (p > 0.05). The conventional drilling group had a mean marginal bone loss of 0.17 mm ± 0.65 between when the implant was restored and the follow-up appointment, while the osseodensification group had a mean marginal bone loss of 0.096 mm ± 0.66 during the same period. The difference between the groups was not significantly different (p > 0.05). The clinical parameters assessed were not significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: Osseodensification drilling protocols do not lead to an increase in marginal bone loss around dental implants that have been in function for at least 1-year compared to conventional drilling protocols.