Comparative evaluation of crestal bone levels around endosseous implants as influenced by conventional and diode laser during second-stage surgery in mandibular implant-supported overdenture: An in vivo study

A novel technique to detect cover screw location at stage two uncovery surgery over conventional technique - A randomized controlled trial

AIM

The conventional technique of implant uncovery using a blade and scalpel is associated with various drawbacks, including profuse bleeding, soft-tissue trauma, delayed healing, and patient noncompliance. Therefore, there is a need to explore the alternative approaches that offer improved accuracy and time efficiency during the cover screw location at the second stage of recovery. This study aims to assess the accuracy and time efficiency of a novel technique that utilizes an apex locator in comparison to conventional locating techniques for implant uncovery.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

The study employed a simple randomized controlled trial with a sample size of 161.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study employed apex locator (Woodpecker Woodpex III Gold 5th generation) in conjunction with a K-file (Mani k-file #10, 21 mm) for detecting the implant location. The accuracy of the novel technique was determined based on the values measured on the apex locator, with positive values indicating soft-tissue response and negative values indicating the cover screw (metal). The accuracy was cross-verified using radiovisiography (RVG). The clinician-based scoring was also done, considering RVG evaluation, amount of incision given, and ease of the procedure. The time required to locate the cover screw was recorded using a timer for both the novel technique and the conventional method.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

All the recorded values were statistically analyzed using the independent t-test (P < 0.005) with the SPSS software (version 23).

RESULTS

The results revealed a significant difference in terms of incision given, ease of treatment, and time taken for the procedure (P < 0.05), while the accuracy of the novel technique was not disturbed (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of this in vivo study, the use of an apex locator as an alternative to conventional methods for detecting cover screw location at the second stage of recovery is recommended. The novel technique demonstrated faster uncovering of implants without posing any risks to the surrounding tissues or implants.

A Comparative Study of the Flap and Flapless Techniques of Ridge Preservation: A Clinical Double-Blinded Study

Introduction

Extraction of the tooth often leads to crestal bone loss. It is difficult for clinicians to decide on the technique of extraction. Many studies on flap and flapless have led to confusion. Hence it becomes necessary to conduct this study to show the efficient ridge preservation technique.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients were selected for this study. It was divided into the flap and flapless groups. In group A, the flap was elevated, tooth extraction was undertaken, the socket was cleaned, a graft was placed, a barrier was placed, and a suture was placed. In group B all the procedures were the same but without flap elevation. After surgery, clinical and radiographical parameters were recorded.

Result

Flapless technique showed a better result in bone preservation. There was a low vertical bone loss in the flapless technique.

Conclusion

Both techniques showed bone loss. But the flapless technique gave better results.

Clinical and CBCT Assessment of Crestal Bone Changes in Immediate and Delayed Placement of Implant

Objectives

The present research was done to assess the crestal bone changes in immediate and delayed dental implant placement.

Materials and Method

Twenty four implant sites in participants within the age group of 25-60 years in both genders were done with immediate (Group I) and delayed implant (Group II) placement method. Clinical parameters such as pain, mobility, and radiographic assessment for crestal bone alterations were recorded at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.

Results and Conclusion

On intergroup assessment, the mean variation of the pain, mobility, and crestal bone loss was insignificant.

Efficacy of different lasers of various wavelengths in treatment of peri-implantitis and peri-implant mucositis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim

Peri implant diseases lead to pathological changes in the peri implant tissues and loss of osseointegration. The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the effect of various lasers and photodynamic therapy (PDT) on peri implant diseases compared to conventional procedures.

Setting and Design

This meta analysis was conducted as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses guidelines.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search of the electronic databases such as PubMed, ICTRP, CT.gov, Embase, and Cochrane Library was done additional to manual search of peer review article on peri-implant diseases. Eleven randomized control clinical trials were included in which laser therapy and PDT were used as an interventional procedure.

Results and Statistical Analysis Used

Review Manager 5.03 (RevMan, Nordic Cochrane Center, Copenhagen, Denmark), and random effects model were used to assess mean difference (MD). Bivariate differential mean statistic was used in intergroup estimate with 95% confidence interval (CI). I2 test statistics was applied for heterogenity and P < 0.05 was considered significant statistically. The literature search yielded a total of 113 articles among which 11 articles were included for quantitative analysis. The selected outcome PD reported MD -0.01 with 95% CI (-0.13, 0.16), P = 0.84, and CAL reported MD -0.09 with 95% CI (-0.32, 0.14), P = 0.45, respectively.

Conclusion

Laser treatment as an adjunctive therapy or monotherapy in peri implantitis does not show any superior effects than conventional measures as per evidence. However, cases with peri implant mucositis have shown far more promising results with laser therapy compared to peri implantitis.