Implants in patients with oral manifestations of autoimmune or muco-cutaneous diseases - A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: To give an overview on implant survival rates in patients with oral manifestations of systemic autoimmune (oral Lichen planus (oLp), Pemphigus (Pe)), muco-cutaneous (Epidermolysis bullosa (EB)), autoimmune multisystemic rheumatic diseases (Sjögren's syndrome (SjS), systemic Lupus erythematosus (sLE), or systemic Sclerosis (sSc)). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Systematic literature review (PubMed/Medline, Embase) using MESH and search term combinations, published between 1980 and August 2018 in English language reporting on dental implant-prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with oLp, Pe, EB, SjS, sLE, sSc, study design, age, gender, follow-up period (≥ 12 months), implant survival rate. Implant-related weighed mean values of implant survival rate (wmSR) were calculated. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up period (mfp) of 44.6 months, a wmSR of 98.3 % was calculated from data published for patients with oLp (100 patients with 302 implants). Data of 27 patients (152 implants) with EB revealed wmSR of 98.7 % following mfp of 32.6 months. For 71 patients (272 implants) with SjS, wmSR was 94.2 % following a mfp of 45.2 months, and for 6 patients (44 implants) with sSc, wmSR was 97.7 % after mfp of 37.5 months. One case report on one patient each with Pe (two implants) as well as sLE (6 implants) showed 100 % SR following at least 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: Guidelines regarding implant treatment of patients with oLp, Pe, EB, SjS, sLE or sSc do not exist nor are contraindicating conditions defined. Implant survival rates of patients affected are comparable to those of healthy patients. For implant-prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with Pe and sLE no conclusions can be drawn due to lack of sufficient clinical data. Implant-prosthetic treatment guidelines regarding healthy patients should be strictly followed, but frequent recall is recommended in patients affected with oLp, SjS, EB, SSc, Pe or sLE.

Electrostimulation of the lingual nerve by an intraoral device may lead to salivary gland regeneration: A case series study.

BACKGROUND: Salivary gland function is controlled by the salivary reflex, whose efferent arm is composed by the parasympathetic and the sympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. Parenchymal injury is the main salivary gland involvement of Sjögren's syndrome and head and neck radiotherapy, but neural damage has been reported as well. Recently an intraoral device for electrostimulation of the lingual nerve in vicinity to the lower third molar has been introduced. At this point this nerve carries efferent fibers for the innervation of the submandibular, sublingual and several minor salivary glands and afferent fibers of the salivary reflex. Therefore, excitation of these fibers potentially leads to increased secretion of all salivary glands. Thus, the study objective was to assess whether comprehensive neural activation by electrostimulation of the lingual nerve carries the potential to induce the regeneration of damaged salivary glands. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The device was tested on three patients with no collectable resting and stimulated secretion of saliva during a double blind, sham controlled period of two months and nine open-label months. RESULTS: All three subjects developed the capacity to spit saliva, not only in direct response to the electrostimulation but also after free intervals without electrostimulation. In addition, their symptoms of dry mouth severity and frequency improved. CONCLUSIONS: This recovery is probably due to the combined effect of increase in secretory functional gland mass and regain of nervous control of the secretory elements and blood vessels. Both are phenomena that would contribute to gland regeneration.

Removal torque evaluation of three different abutment screws for single implant restorations after mechanical cyclic loading.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the removal torque of three different abutment screws and pull out strength of implant-abutment connection for single implant restorations after mechanical cyclic loading. METHODS: The study was performed in accordance with ISO 14801:2007. Three implant groups (n=15) were used: group A, PW Plus® with flat head screw; group B, PW Plus® with tapered screw; and group C, Conelog® with flat head screw. All groups had the same implant-abutment connection feature: cone with mandatory index. All screws were tightened with manufacturer's recommended torque. Ten specimens in each group underwent cyclic loading (1×106 cycles, 10 Hz, and 250 N). Then, all specimens were un-tightened, measured for the removal torque, and underwent a tensile test. The force that dislodged abutment from implant fixture was recorded. The data were analysed using independent sample t-test, ANOVA and Tukey HSD test. RESULTS: Before cyclic loading, removal torque in groups A, B and C were significantly different (B> A> C, P<.05). After cyclic loading, removal torque in all groups decreased significantly (P<.05). Group C revealed significantly less removal torque than groups A and B (P<.005). Tensile force in all groups significantly increased after cyclic loading (P<.05), group A had significantly less tensile force than groups B and C (P<.005). CONCLUSIONS: Removal torque reduced significantly after cyclic loading. Before cyclic loading, tapered screws maintained more preload than did flat head screws. After cyclic loading, tapered and flat head screws maintained even amounts of preload. The tensile force that dislodged abutment from implant fixture increased immensely after cyclic loading.

Dental implants in patients with oral mucosal diseases - a systematic review.

To reveal dental implants survival rates in patients with oral mucosal diseases: oral lichen planus (OLP), Sjögren's syndrome (SjS), epidermolysis bullosa (EB) and systemic sclerosis (SSc). A systematic literature search using PubMed/Medline and Embase databases, utilising MeSH and search term combinations identified publications on clinical use implant-prosthetic rehabilitation in patients with OLP, SjS, EB, SSc reporting on study design, number, gender and age of patients, follow-up period exceeding 12 months, implant survival rate, published in English between 1980 and May 2015. After a mean observation period (mOP) of 53·9 months (standard deviation [SD] ±18·3), 191 implants in 57 patients with OLP showed a survival rate (SR) of 95·3% (SD ±21·2). For 17 patients with SjS (121 implants, mOP 48·6 ± 28·7 months), 28 patients with EB (165 implants, mOP 38·3 ± 16·9 months) and five patients with SSc (38 implants, mOP 38·3 ± 16·9 months), the respective SR was 91·7 ± 5·97% (SjS), 98·5 ± 2·7% (EB) and 97·4 ± 4·8% (SSc). Heterogeneity of data structure and quality of reporting outcomes did not allow for further comparative data analysis. For implant-prosthetic rehabilitation of patients suffering from OLP, SjS, EB and SSc, no evidence-based treatment guidelines are presently available. However, no strict contraindication for the placement of implants seems to be justified in patients with OLP, SjS, EB nor SSc. Implant survival rates are comparable to those of patients without oral mucosal diseases. Treatment guidelines as for dental implantation in patients with healthy oral mucosa should be followed.

[An electro-stimulating oral splint for dry mouth treatment].

Dentists encounter regularly patients with xerostomia, which is the accepted term for dry mouth complaint. Left untreated, xerostomia can lead to psychosocial distress and to impaired quality of life. Oral complications of the most frequent cause of xerostomia, salivary gland hypofunction, include dental caries and candidiasis. In addition, quality of life is significantly hampered. The etiology of xerostomia is multiple, but the most common conditions are Sjögren's syndrome, radiotherapy to the head and neck and use of medications. Current therapies offered by dentists rely on saliva substitutes and stimulants such as chewing gum, and are somewhat limited by their short-term efficacy. Oral mucosal electro-stimulation increases salivary secretion and relieves symptoms of dry mouth in patients with xerostomia. Therefore, intra-oral electronic devices have been developed aimed at stimulating salivary gland function. They offer promise as an optional safe and non-chemical treatment of xerostomia.

Electrostimulating device in the management of xerostomia.

INTRODUCTION: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a recently developed electrostimulating device mounted on an individualized intra-oral removable appliance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The device, containing electrodes, a wetness sensor, an electronic circuit and a power source, was tested on patients with xerostomia in a crossover, randomized, sham-controlled, double-blinded, multicenter study. Electrical stimulation and also sham were delivered during 10 min to the oral mucosa, in the mandibular third molar region. Oral dryness was measured by the sensor. As the primary outcome, sensor dryness and xerostomia symptom changes as a result of device wearing were assessed, and compared between active and sham modes. In addition, side-effects were recorded. RESULTS: Electrostimulation resulted in a significant decrease in sensor dryness, leading to a beneficial effect on patients' subjective condition. No significant side-effects were observed.

[Sinus floor elevation and augmentation. Evidence-based analysis of prognosis and risk factors]. / Sinusbodenelevation und -augmentation. Evidenzgestützte Aussagen zu Prognose und Risikofaktoren.

AIM: It was the aim of this investigation to analyze evidence of prognosis, predictors, and risk factors concerning sinus floor elevation and augmentation (SFEA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A MEDLINE search was performed to analyze the literature published between 1990 and 2002, limited to keywords ("sinus floor elevation and dental implants", "complications", "success"), study type (randomized as well as clinical prospective studies, retrospective studies, reviews), and language (German or English). RESULTS: Of 229 publications identified, 72 met the inclusion criteria (22 prospective and 47 retrospective studies, 3 reviews). Considering the augmentation material [autogenous bone (AB), bone substitution materials (BSM), and combinations of AB and BSM], the frequency of implant loss was not significantly different (AB 8%, BSM 9%, AB + BSM 5%, p>0.09) after an observation period of 2-4 years. The average duration of the healing period was 6 months (AB) and 8 months (BSM) with simultaneous SFEA and implantation and 6-7 months (AB and BSM) for the staged approach after an average healing period of 6 months for the augmentation materials. Frequency of implant loss was not different between simultaneous and staged approaches (7-8%). Postoperative sinusitis occurred in 3-8% of the cases. Smoking, positive sinusitis history, obstructive pathoses of the nose and ostium, allergic rhino-pathoses, use of short implants (<13 mm), treatment of edentulous maxilla compared to partially edentulous maxilla, bruxism, and uncontrolled early loading of implants were identified as predictors for complications. CONCLUSIONS: Presupposing proper consideration of indications, SFEA should be considered as an evidence-based and clinically established method for implant prosthetic rehabilitation of the atrophic posterior maxilla with an overall cumulative survival rate of 90% within an average observation period of 4 years.

[Wound healing after surgical wisdom tooth extraction. Evidence-based analysis]. / Wundheilung nach operativer Weisheitszahnentfernung. Evidenzgestützte Analyse.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this article was to conduct a review of current evidence focusing on parameters influencing wound healing after removal of mandibular third molars. SELECTION OF PUBLICATIONS: For selection of publications, methods of evidence-based dentistry were used. Systematic selection of studies included in this review was performed after search of publications by electronic databases (MEDLINE) concentrating on five keywords ("third molar" or "wisdom teeth" and "evidence," "wound healing," and "incision," respectively) published within the last 15 years. Of the 126 articles found, 56 were included regarding contents and after formal evaluation and 29 after narrative search. WOUND HEALING: Parameters for the evaluation of the course of wound healing after mandibular third molar removal were postoperative pain (32% of publications), swelling (28%), trismus (18%), and sensory disturbances (13%). The peak of incidences of alveolar ostitis (0.3-35%) and wound infections (1-16.7%) correlated with the age group between 25 and 35 years. The incidence of sensory disturbances (transient disturbances of the inferior alveolar nerve 0.4-0.6% and lingual nerve 0.06-11.5%, permanent disturbances 0.2-1%) was found to be increased above the age of 25 years. PREDICTORS: Age, duration of operation, primary or secondary wound closure, retention or impaction type, and pathoses associated with the third molar were identified as evident predictors for the postoperative course. Due to the higher incidence of postoperative complications above the age of 25 years, third molars should be removed before this age if indicated. Evidence status of the conclusions drawn varies due to the different quality of studies included, sample sizes, and statistical methods.

CrossLaps and beta-glucuronidase in peri-implant and gingival crevicular fluid.

Collagen degradation products of the carboxyterminal region possibly reflect bone and attachment loss. In the present study, the Serum CrossLaps One-Step enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine a specific part of the carboxyterminal region of type I collagen, the CrossLaps. Samples of peri-implant and gingival crevicular fluid of 111 implants and 53 teeth from 47 partially or completely edentulous patients were examined in reference to levels of CrossLaps and beta-glucuronidase (beta G), an established marker of periodontal disease. Clinical probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque accumulation, mobility, radiographic bone loss, and the occurrence of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia were assessed. The mean values were: for PPD at implants 3.76 +/- 1.41 mm, at teeth 3.44 +/- 0.88 mm; for beta G at implants 0.364 +/- 0.392 pU/min, at teeth 0.314 +/- 0.209 pU/min; for CrossLaps at implants 0.069 +/- 0.059 pmol/min, at teeth 0.082 +/- 0.053 pmol/min. Bleeding on probing was significantly higher on implants than on teeth (McNemar test, P = .004). No significant difference of beta G levels was found between teeth and implants (Wilcoxon test). A negative correlation was found between beta G levels and CrossLaps levels at teeth (Pearson-rank correlation, P = .002). On implants, no significant correlation of these 2 parameters was seen, but significant correlations were found between sulcus fluid flow rate and PPD (P = .012), beta G levels and bone loss (P < 0.0005), and CrossLaps levels and PPD (P = .011). CrossLaps can be detected in both gingival and peri-implant crevicular fluid. While rising levels of beta G may indicate acute peri-implantitis, CrossLaps may not, but could play a role as a marker of ongoing attachment loss.

[Risks and complications of membrane-guided bone regeneration. Retrospective analysis]. / Risiken und Komplikationen der membrangesteuerten Knochenregeneration. Retrospektive Analyse.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the number of premature membrane exposures and to evaluate possible predisposing factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 72 patients were treated with ePTFE membranes (GoreTex Augmentation Material) for membrane-guided bone regeneration (GBR) of periimplant bone defects (median age 38.5 years, minimum 18 years, maximum 68 years; 39% male and 61% female patients, data collection between 03/1993 and 02/2000). Sixty-one percent of the membranes were applied in the upper jaw and 39% in the lower jaw; 61% of all GBR procedures were performed in conjunction with single tooth replacements. RESULTS: Premature membrane exposure (PME) was found at 44% of the sites. Of these PMEs 72% occurred after a primary, uneventful healing period subsequent to membrane implantation. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between the parameters "premature membrane exposure", "membrane covering the alveolar ridge" (P = 0.0004) and "membrane located beneath the incision line" (P = 0.0004). Additionally a tendency for correlation was calculated for the parameters "defect configuration" (P = 0.08) and "smoking" (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: The defect morphology, the flap and incision design and the smoking habits of the patients have to be carefully considered if guided bone regeneration is planned. Non-space-maintaining defect configurations, smoking habits and crestal incisions crossing the planned membrane location seem to be contraindications for the use of ePTFE membranes. In such cases, alternative treatment methods should be considered.

Observations on a new collagen barrier membrane in 16 consecutively treated patients. Clinical and histological findings.

BACKGROUND: Space-maintaining capacity, cell disclusive potential, and stability over time are crucial factors to achieving sufficient bone augmentation with membrane barriers. The case series presented here assessed a new collagen barrier used in bone augmentation. Clinically, the healing pattern, especially in cases of secondary healing, was studied. METHODS: Soft tissue healing was documented by photographs, and the size of the dehiscences calculated by image analysis. The measurements were performed on digitized photographs. During reentry, barrier remnants were dissected and histologically evaluated. RESULTS: The mean value for dehiscences was 35.5 mm2; all dehiscences healed within 4 weeks after the exposure became evident. The difference was statistically significant between the week 2 and week 6 visits (P = 0.008) for each previously exposed site. The histologic observation of barrier remnants revealed direct apposition of fibrous and bone tissues on the membrane surface. CONCLUSION: In cases of membrane exposure, gingival dehiscences always disappeared in the following weeks without affecting the healing process. Histologic results showed barrier stability over a 6-month period, promoting bone regeneration.

Morphological study of Osteoplate 2000-extension implants after bending.

Unfavorable anatomical conditions of implant sites often require the insertion of implants in a direction that may interfere with the positioning of suprastructural elements in a functionally and esthetically satisfying manner. In some implant systems, bending of the implant neck is one of the possible methods for optimizing the insertion angle for the superimposed prosthesis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether bending procedures of the implant neck cause changes in the surface properties at the implant neck area. After bending of the implant neck up to 30 degrees, scanning electron microscopy revealed changes in the surface texture of the titanium. Superficial rips approximately 5 microns wide and 100 microns long had formed. These findings were confirmed by metallographic examinations. Values of Vickers hardness testing in the implant neck area after bending of 30 degrees showed significant differences between the compression or stretched zone and the neutral zone of the bending area. Bending of the implant neck between 0 and 20 degrees may influence the surface morphology, promoting superficial rips. Plaque accumulation and mechanically induced mucosal irritations due to changes of surface morphology and properties by bending should be further analyzed.

[Changes in the alveolar ridge level in implantation using the osteotomy technic. Retrospective studies]. / Höhenverlauf des Limbus alveolaris bei Implantationen mit der Osteotomtechnik. Retrospektive Untersuchung.

Due to a configuration defect, the use of membrane-guided bone regeneration or alveolar ridge extension is required. The bone splitting and bone spreading technique was modified by developing the osteotome technique and the osteotome kit (Summers 1994). Lateral and apical bone displacement and condensation are the principles of this nonablative implant bed preparation technique. Estimation of the periimplant bone level is one of the important prognostic parameters for estimating implant survival. The level of the alveolar crest near implants which were inserted using the osteotome technique was investigated by measuring the differences between the alveolar crest and the implant shoulder in postoperative radiographs after implant insertion and after uncovering the implants in 17 patients. The osteotome technique was used in bone quality D2 and D3 according to the classification by Misch (1993). Significant differences were found between the bone levels after implant insertion and implant uncovering. A significant correlation (r = 0.5466; P = 0.023) was calculated between the differences of the marginal bone level at implantation and uncovering time and the bone quality. There should be strict indications for using the osteotome technique for evaluating the bone quality found at the implant site to optimize the long-term prognosis of the implants.