A radiological study method of vertical alveolar resorptions using immediate dental implants

Dental extraction is followed by decreases in alveolar volume, vertically and horizontally. This retrospective study measured vertical alveolar resorption after insertion of immediate implants, using OPG, without CBCT or additional radiographs. Patients were randomly split in two groups A (57 implants) and B (47 implants). Measurements were made by two independent observers. The types of implants were: Exacta (Biaggini Medical Devices), Nova, Dentix Millenium and Surcam. The method was based on the size of the implant and another common element of the two radiographs. It used an optimal radiologic exposure. It can be generalized to other studies. Similar results measured in the two groups showed that alveolar remodeling does not depend on the type of the implant. Half of the alveoli did not have any resorption. Another quarter showed barely perceptible clinical resorption (1-2 mm). In the last quarter were registered all the notable resorptions that were associated with various factors (temporary mobile prosthesis, surgical flap, medication and some health problems, smoking, etc.) showing real situations, not ideal conditions. Maximum resorption was unique (7.63 mm).