Radiographic Analysis of a Two-Piece Apatite Implant: Part II. Preliminary Report of 2-Year Observation

Marginal bone height and bone density were evaluated for 2 years after two-piece dense hydroxyapatite implant (Apaceram) placement using standardized radiography and digital image processing. The chronological changes in marginal bone height were divided into three groups: Group level was constant or became higher with time; Group II - bone decreased gradually after superstructure placement; and Group III - bone decreased in height rapidly after abutment placement. Bone density around the successful Apaceram implant, especially in the crestal region, increased clearly. The results suggest that bone resorption/formation around the implant is related to occlusal stress, and that adequate occlusal stress should be exerted on the implant at each phase after the implant placement. Keywords: Apaceram implant, bone remodeling, dense hydroxyapatite, digital image processing