Two-Step Implantation with Built-up Bone May be More Effective
There may be an answer to the longstanding debate about whether or not it’s better to allow bone to build up before placing an implant.
New research shows that its more effective to build bone first and then place the implant, allowing more bone growth, according to Prof. Zvi Artzi of Tel Aviv University’s Maurice and Gabriela Goldschleger School of Dentistry at the Sackler Faculty of Medicine. The information appears in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology.
A one-step implant will show more wear and tear over a period time when compared to on implanted via the two-step process. There’s a larger amount of bone resorption around the neck with the one-step procedure. Bonding around the bone is also not as good.
The success of a tooth implant relies upon the biocompatibility of titanium. Human and animal tissues generally accept the implant and grow around it.
Periodontists choose the one- or two-step process based on preference. This particular study was based on long-term results, which are not usually included in the window in which the periodontist would monitor the patient’s procedure. So the researchers tracked the progress of the implants on animals during a two-year stretch.
Despite this research, it’s still possible for the one-step procedure to be better. It all depends on the way the patient heals and reacts. This research isn’t suggesting the one-step procedure doesn’t work, rather that the two-step procedure is more effective based on long-term results.