A review of selected dental literature on evidence-based treatment planning for dental implants: Report of the Committee on Research in Fixed Prosthodontics of the Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics

A review of selected dental literature on evidence-based treatment planning for dental implants: Report of the Committee on Research in Fixed Prosthodontics of the Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics
November 2004
Melanie R. Wood, DMD a *
Stanley G. Vermilyea, DMD, MS b
Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
Abstract
This literature review summarizes research with the aim of providing dentists with evidence-based guidelines to apply when planning treatment with osseointegrated implants. Peer-reviewed literature published in the English language between 1969 and 2003 was reviewed using Medline and hand searches. Topics reviewed include systemic host factors such as age, gender, various medical conditions, and patient habits, local host factors involving the quantity and quality of bone and soft tissue, presence of present or past infection and occlusion, prosthetic design factors, including the number and arrangement of implants, size and coatings of implants, cantilevers and connections to natural teeth, and methods to improve outcomes of implant treatment in each category. The review demonstrated that there is no systemic factor or habit that is an absolute contraindication to the placement of osseointegrated implants in the adult patient, although cessation of smoking can improve outcome significantly. The most important local patient factor for successful treatment is the quality and quantity of bone available at the implant site. Specific design criteria are provided, including guidelines for spacing of implants, size, materials, occlusion, and fit. Limitations in the current body of knowledge are identified, and directions for future research are suggested.
Publishing and Reprint Information
aPrivate Practice, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
bAssociate Professor and Chairman, Department of Primary Care, College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University.
*Reprint requests to: Dr Melanie Wood 380 - 500 Portage Ave Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 3V4 Fax: 204-783-3244
Email address: melaniew@mb.sympatico.ca (Melanie R. Wood)
College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Copyright ий 2004 by The Editorial Council of The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
doi: 10.1016/j.prosdent.2004.08.003
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