Tactile Threshold for Static Loads in Tissues Surrounding Osseointegrated Implants

This study investigated the tactile threshold of peri-implant tissues to clarify the pressure-recognition mechanism for static loads in patients with osseointegrated implants. A measuring device composed of a loading apparatus with electrical strain meters, a hand switch, and a thermal-pen recorder was used. Experiments were performed under different conditions involving loading direction and participation of surrounding tissues. This study confirmed that patients with osseointegrated implants lacked the pressure-recognition mechanism for very small loads, but possessed the mechanism for larger loads. This mechanism is thought to depend on the mechanoreceptors present in muscles, tendons, and the temporomandibular joints. Keywords: osseointegrated implant, peri-implant tissues, pressure-recognition mechanism, tactile threshold