Advances in Dental Research, Vol 13, 136-145, Copyright © 1999 by International & American Associations for Dental Research
Radiographic determinants of implant performance
M. S. Reddy and I. C. Wang
Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Station 34, 1919 7th Avenue South, Room 412, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-0007, USA.
This paper reviews and compares the strengths and weaknesses of
radiographic techniques including periapical, occlusal, panoramic, direct
digital, motion tomography, and computed tomography. Practical
considerations for each method, including availability and accessibility,
are discussed. To date, digital subtraction radiography is the most
versatile and sensitive method for measuring boss loss. It can detect both
bone height and bone mass changes on root-form or blade-form dental
implants. Criteria for implant success have changed substantially over the
past two decades. In clinical trials of dental implants, the outcomes
require certain radiographic analyses to address the hypothesis or clinical
question adequately. Radiographic methods best suited to the objective
assessment of implant performance and hypothesis were reviewed.
