IN OUR ETOBICOKE DENTAL OFFICE WE RECOGNIZE THE EFFECTS SYSTEMIC MEDICATIONS HAVE ON THE OSSEOINTEGRATION OF IMPLANTS

An implant is a screw like a post used to replace a missing tooth and osseointegration is the bone healing around the threading of the implant.

The success of dental implants is rated high at 90 – 95% and the success of this procedure can be influenced by chronic use of medications; that can interfere with osseointegration leading to failure.

Research results show acute infections, implant instability, lack of patient compliance, smoking, poor oral hygiene, uncontrolled diabetes and radiation above the shoulders may contribute to failed stabilization of implants.

Anything that can alter bone healing will have a negative effect and lead to premature implant complications.

Influential medications that may impair osseointegration

Cyclosporine (CSA)

This medication is prescribed to prevent transplant rejection and treat immunologic diseases and has shown to suppress and inhibit bone growth.

Glucocorticoids

This medication is prescribed to prevent transplant rejection and treat immunologic diseases and has shown to suppress and inhibit bone growth.

Glucocorticoids

Long-term use of Glucocorticoids used to suppress inflammation in chronic diseases will reduce bone formation and increase bone resorption.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a risk factor when in excessive use, and these patients may be a higher risk of implant failure. Delayed healing is apparent following surgical procedures.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are used with success for depression and depression has been linked to low bone mass, falls and fractures; therefore osseointegration of implants are a high risk for failure.

Bisphosphonates

This drug is usually used to maintain bone density and strength and given to patients with life-threatening hypercalcemia caused by myeloma, breast and prostate cancer. It is recommended that no surgical procedure should be carried out, this includes dental implants.

Chemotherapeutic Agents

In regards to chemotherapy, it targets cancer cells but also acts on normal cells as well delaying bone healing. Six months after all chemotherapy is completed, there are no effects on osseointegration and implants can be a successful procedure.