Radiological evaluation of marginal bone loss and surgical complications before prosthetic loading in dental implant applications

Aim: The aim of our study is to radiologically assess the marginal bone loss and surgical complications prior to prosthetic treatment in all cases of dental implant procedures for patients aged 18 and older who applied to our clinic. Material and Method: Clinical and radiological data of patients who underwent implant surgery between January 1, 2013, and April 28, 2022, were extracted from the archives and prepared for evaluation. Patients with T1 (first panoramic radiographic measurement performed in the postoperative period) and T2 (panoramic radiographic measurement performed prior to prosthetic treatment in the postoperative period) measurements were included in the study. The mesial-distal bone losses of implants were compared between the regions where the implants were placed and the types of implants used. Measurements were conducted using the Planmeca Romexis 3.0 program on panoramic radiographs. Results: A total of 470 implants were applied to 137 patients included in the study. Of the study patients, 243 were male (51.7%), and 227 were female (48.3%). Ages ranged from 18 to 78, with an average age of 49.76. Marginal bone losses in the T2 period were higher than those in the T1 period (p<0.05). In both females and males, marginal bone losses in the distal and mesial regions were higher in T2 measurements compared to T1 measurements (p<0.05). For implants with modified Tioblast surface with fluoride, Sandblasted and Acid-Etched Titanium surface, and Grit Blasted rough surface, mesial marginal bone loss measurements in the T2 period were significantly higher than those in the T1 period (p<0.05). Similarly, for implants with modified Tioblast surface with fluoride, Sandblasted and Acid-Etched Titanium surface, Hydroxyapatite coating, and Resorbable Blast Texture surface, distal marginal bone loss measurements in the T2 period were significantly higher than those in the T1 period (p<0.05). Conclusion: Distal and mesial marginal bone loss can be observed before prosthetic treatment. Marginal bone losses in the T2 mesial and distal regions may be higher in implants with Grit Blasted Rough surface compared to implants with other surface characteristics. However, longer follow-ups and further studies are required for more conclusive results. Keywords: Dental implant, Bone resorption, Panoramic radiography