The Use of Narrow Diameter Implants in the Molar Area.
Implant rehabilitations in the posterior jaw are influenced by many factors such as the condition of the remaining teeth, the force factors related to the patient, the quality of the bone, the maintenance of the hygiene, the limited bone height, the type and extent of edentulism, and the nature of the opposing arch. The gold standard is to place a regular diameter implant (>3.7 mm) or a wide one to replace every missing molar. Unfortunately, due to horizontal bone resorption, this option is not possible without lateral bone augmentation. In this situation, narrow diameter implant (NDI < 3.5 mm) could be the alternative to lateral bone augmentation procedures. This paper presents a clinical study where NDIs were used for the replacement of missing molars. They were followed up to 11 years. Special considerations were observed and many parameters were evaluated. NDI could be used to replace missing molar in case of moderate horizontal bone resorption if strict guidelines are respected. Yet, future controlled prospective clinical trials are required to admit their use as scientific evidence.
Private Practice Limited to Periodontology and Implantology, Tyre 00961, Lebanon.
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M
Saad
Unit of Biomaterials and Technology, School of Dentistry, Lebanese University, Beirut 00961, Lebanon; School of Dentistry, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 00961, Lebanon.
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A
Assaf
Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Lebanese University, Beirut 00961, Lebanon.
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Gerges