The European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) is committed to advancing the field of dental implantology through science and evidence-based practice. One of the ways EAO achieves this is by organizing consensus conferences, where experts review the latest literature and develop guidelines for clinical practice. In February 2018, one such conference focused on biological aspects of dental implants, producing a comprehensive 300-page report. In this article, we distill the key insights from that report, highlighting practical takeaways for dental practitioners.
Simplifying Complex Science for Daily Practice To make the extensive findings accessible, the EAO produced a digest summarizing the main points in clear and concise language. Dr. Alberto Salgado from the University of Alicante, a contributor to the digest, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between complex scientific research and everyday dental practice. The digest is available online in nine languages, ensuring that crucial information reaches a global audience of dental professionals.
Key Research Areas: Abutment Materials and Peri-Implantitis The conference focused on two main topics: the materials used for abutments and the definition and diagnosis of peri-implantitis.
Abutment Materials:
Titanium Remains the Gold Standard:
Titanium is currently the preferred material for abutments due to its proven track record in both biological compatibility and aesthetic outcomes. The research found no significant differences in biological complications between titanium and other materials like zirconia and alumina. Emerging Materials:
Zirconia and alumina abutments showed some potential benefits, particularly in terms of plaque accumulation and bleeding on probing. While these materials did not show statistically significant differences in the studies analyzed, they warrant further research to confirm their advantages. Clinical Implication:
For now, titanium remains the first choice for abutments. However, clinicians can consider experimenting with zirconia and alumina while staying informed about ongoing research. Peri-Implantitis:
Need for a Unified Definition:
One of the major findings was the lack of a standardized definition for peri-implantitis, making it difficult to compare studies and assess prevalence accurately. The consensus emphasized the need for a fixed definition incorporating multiple parameters: marginal bone loss, bleeding on probing, and probing depth. Baseline Measurement:
Establishing a baseline after prosthesis installation is crucial for monitoring changes over time. This helps in accurately diagnosing peri-implantitis and assessing its progression. Clinical Implication:
Always use a combination of marginal bone loss, bleeding on probing, and probing depth to diagnose peri-implantitis. Ensure that baseline measurements are taken several months post-prosthesis installation to account for initial bone remodeling. Broader Clinical Insights The conference highlighted several broader clinical insights:
Holistic Patient Management:
Peri-implantitis should be considered at the patient level rather than just the implant level. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding and management of the condition. Prevalence and Monitoring:
The true prevalence of peri-implantitis remains unclear due to varying definitions. However, it is recognized as a significant issue that requires ongoing attention and research. Conclusion The EAO Consensus Conference has provided valuable insights that can enhance clinical practice in dental implantology. By adopting the recommended guidelines on abutment materials and peri-implantitis diagnosis, clinicians can improve patient outcomes and contribute to the advancement of the field. For more detailed information, dental professionals are encouraged to visit the EAO website and access the full digest.
For those looking to stay updated on the latest findings and recommendations, the digest is an invaluable resource, offering concise and actionable information derived from extensive research.
By integrating these insights into daily practice, dental professionals can ensure they are providing the best possible care based on the latest scientific evidence.