First long-term study on two-piece zirconia implants published

After nine years of implant function, none of the implants developed peri-implantitis, the mean bleeding on probing was 12.9% and the maximum mucosal recession was 1 mm. The plaque indices, pocket depths and bleeding on probing at the two- and nine-year follow-ups remained stable. High aesthetics were achieved by the clinical improvements of the soft tissue, showing an increase in keratinised gingiva between baseline and the nine-year follow-up. No implant fractures were reported.

Significance of the study

Prior to this study, there had been no long-term observations of two-piece zirconia implants. The implant systems currently available on the market typically undergo fewer long-term studies, and the existing studies are often limited to observation periods of a maximum of five years. On one hand, many of the implant systems that have undergone long-term scientific observation are no longer on the market. On the other hand, new product lines are being introduced so rapidly that scientific evaluation over longer periods is not being conducted.² This is worrisome, as studies suggest that the prevalence of biological complications such as peri-mucositis and peri-implantitis increases over time.^3, 4 Uncontrolled peri-implantitis can lead to infections in the oral cavity, placing further strain on the immune system and increasing the risk of developing other diseases.^5, 6

Focus on long-term results

During the 2023 International Dental Show, held in Cologne in Germany in March, Zircon Medical Management CEO Marco Waldner commented: “Studies have shown that complications after implant placement occur often within the first five years and significantly increase after eight years. For this reason, it was important for us to provide scientific data on the clinical success of the Patent system that extends beyond these time frames before it is offered on the broad market. This gives practitioners and patients the highest level of confidence regarding the long-term results they can expect with Patent implants.”

The study, titled “Two-piece zirconia implants in the posterior mandible and maxilla: A cohort study with a follow-up period of 9 years”, was published in the December 2022 issue of Clinical Oral Implants Research.

More information can be found at www.mypatent.com.

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