Peri‐Implant Bone Organization Under Immediate Loading State. Circularly Polarized Light Analyses: A Minipig Study

Abstract

Background: Immediate loading of dental implants is currently one of the most examined topics in implant dentistry. Using screw implants with a microstructured surface and bone‐quality–adapted insertion procedures, osseointegration is achieved when implants are initially stable and when splinted with the superstructure. Despite reported success, there is a shortage of information relating to remodeling and peri‐implant bone formation with immediately loaded implants. Methods: Four to six immediately loaded and unloaded dental implants with a microstructured surface were placed in the mandible and the maxilla in seven minipigs. A total of 85 implants were placed. After a 4‐month healing period, all implants were retrieved. Histomorphometry was performed using a light microscope in transmitted polarized light connected to a high‐resolution video camera interfaced to a monitor and personal computer. This optical system was associated with a digitizing pad and a histomorphometry software package with image capturing capabilities. Results: Implants showed osseointegration if the average insertion torque of the implants within one bridge was >35 Ncm. If the primary stability of the bridge was 35 Ncm was associated with the most successful implants.