Bisphosphonates in improving the osseointegration of dental implants
Alyssa Golden
University of Minnesota Duluth
Abstract
Dental implants have become a commonly used restorative option for tooth replacement, and with this common option comes the need of methods that ensure quick initial healing and long-term stability. One area of study addressing this need has been in the use of bisphosphonates, a class of medications commonly taken for osteoporosis treatment. This review primarily focuses on the effects of two of the most common bisphosphonates (alendronate and zoledronic acid) and differing methods of delivery. Most studies focusing on bone growth and bisphosphonates are similar in their test organism of rats and placement of implants in the leg bones, but vary on the dosage and duration of medication. Overall, the effect of alendronate and zoledronic acid show improvement of bone regrowth and implant stability. There are some exceptions, with studies of very high dosage and intravenous usage instead of local delivery showing negative effects on the bone regrowth. More study is required on the effects of bisphosphonates, especially as only a handful of the published research utilize maxillary or mandibular implant placement, but the use of these medications seems to be mostly beneficial.
