Abstract
Background. This trial aimed to compare osseodensification with traditional implant site preparation in terms of clinical outcomes, radiographic findings, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in the peri-implant sulcus.
Methods. Sixteen patients were randomly assigned to two groups. In group 1, eleven sites received a small-diameter implant according to the conventional method; in group 2, eleven sites received an implant after osseodensification. The modified plaque index, modified bleeding (sulcus) index, and peri-implant probing depth were recorded for all patients on the day of implant placement (baseline) as well as at 3 and 6 months. The preoperative and postoperative alveolar ridge widths were measured, and the marginal bone loss (MBL) around the implant was assessed. Gingival crevicular samples were assayed using ELISA.
Results. For the MPI, mSBI, and PPD, no statistically significant differences were reported across the groups at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Group 2 showed a lower marginal bone level and higher bone density, lower VEGF, and lower IL-6 levels than group 1.
Conclusion. Osseodensification was shown to preserve bone and augment the ridge width, unlike conventional osteotomy with a small-diameter implant. The association of VEGF and IL-6 may be used as a marker for bone resorption and revascularization around dental implants.