Clinical effectiveness of implant support for distal extension removable partial dentures: functional evaluation using occlusal force measurement and masticatory efficiency.

BACKGROUND: Implant-supported removable partial dentures (ISRPD) are supported at the free-end region with implant retainers. As implant retainers prevent denture settlement and facilitate denture retention, this is intended to improve masticatory performance in comparison with that of conventional removable dentures. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of implant retainers at the free-end region of removable dentures on occlusal force and masticatory efficiency using a pressure-sensitive sheet, and measured glucose concentration in saliva after mastication with gummy candy. METHODS: In the present study, the occlusal force and masticatory efficiency of 13 subjects were measured in the following three conditions: without dentures (Condition 1), wearing dentures but not supported by implants (Condition 2), and wearing dentures supported by implants (ISRPD) (Condition 3). All data were statistically compared. RESULTS: Regarding the occlusal force, Condition 3 showed significantly higher scores than the other conditions; however, there were no significant differences between Conditions 1 and 2. Regarding the masticatory efficiency, Condition 3 showed significantly higher scores than Condition 2. CONCLUSIONS: With ISRPD, the occlusal force and masticatory efficiency were increased in comparison with those with conventional removable dentures.

Implant treatment followed by living donor lung transplant: a follow-up case report.

PATIENTS: Dental implant treatment in patients with complicated systemic disease has been discussed, especially in the context of achieving osseointegration. However, some patients with no pre-existing systemic disease develop it later, during their implant maintenance periods. Organ transplants, and the lifelong administration of immunosuppressants that follows, are also of relevance to post-implant oral health. Thus, strategies to maintain the health of peri-implant tissue in these patients should be considered. Here, we present the case of a patient receiving a living-donor lung transplant during her implant follow-up period. The condition of the lung is affected by that of the oral cavity, so the maintenance is of utmost importance. Throughout the follow-up period, we provided periodical professional maintenance care. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The patient experienced no complications, alterations in her radiographic findings, or worsening of periodontal indices, despite being extensively medicated with immunosuppressants, steroids and bisphosphonate.

Comparison of the effects of added alpha- and beta- tricalcium phosphate on the basic properties of apatite cement.

Effects of added alpha-tricalcium phosphate (alpha-TCP) and beta-TCP were investigated to shed light on the setting reaction of apatite cement (AC) consisting of tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP) and dicalcium phosphate anhydrous8 (DCPA). Added beta-TCP showed no reactivity, and thus resulted in extended setting time and decreased mechanical strength. In contrast, alpha-TCP dissolved to supply calcium and phosphate ions after initial apatite crystal formation by the reaction of TTCP and DCPA. Although setting time was delayed because alpha-TCP was involved only in the latter reaction of apatite cement, larger apatite crystals were formed due to its addition. As a result of larger apatite crystal formation, the mechanical strength of alpha-TCP-added apatite cement increased by approximately 30%, as compared to alpha-TCP-free apatite cement.