Anon. asks:
I have been placing implants for 5 years with few complications. One of the problems I have occasionally experienced is an implant fixture not being fully osseointegrated when I do the uncovery and attempt to torque down the abutment. I have read the literature on radio frequency analysis and am impressed by what it can do. I really have never understood what you are supposed to hear when you tap on the implant fixture to analyze if it is fully integrated or not. Can someone explain that? Also, is the Periotest that accurate and reliable in real clinical use? Is it worth the investment?
Radio Frequency Analysis: Can Someone Clarify This?
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Anon,
RFA is different from the “tap” test you describe. RFA is done using an Osstell Mentor unit. It consists of a post which is screwed into your implant and a transducer/receiver unit. It works by emmiting a radio frequency and then reads the amplitude which returns to the unit from the implant. Basically it reads and gives a number that is associated with the “solidness” of the implant.
The “Tap test” is very subjective– it is where you tap the implant cover cap with a mirror handle. If the sound is a “ping” it is integrated, if it is a dull “thud”, then it is not…
The Periotest device uses a small plunger that rapidly taps the implant and reads the resistance. It is not as well established in the literature as the Osstel unit.
Hope this helps.
Ostell I use and it really is the only way to tell before the final torque if you’re going to have a spinner. What is great about the unit, if you have a single stage implant, you’ll find in week 4-10 the readings drop during the remodeling phase (II) of bone healing, before returning to the initial post-implant placement ISQ reading, then at about 12-14 weeks the numbers start to climb. If it is 65 or better, I have not seen one spin yet. However, as the literature mentions, it is not 100%, but it really is one of the only ways to have some objective evidence of adequate osseointegration prior to final torquing. Initial post implant torque readings are marginally useful as you have no idea what that bone around the implant will do over time.
I agree with both comments. Ostell Mentor is the only device which provides objective readings on implant stability, hence the measurement is read as ISQ – the implant stability quotient. It is easy to use and of great help. The Periotest is not as useful with implants, but can be used with natural teeth as an additional periodontal status measurement tool.
Where can I purchase the Ostell Unit? Does NEoss still sell it?
I believe you can purchase the Osstell units through Straumann now.
Osstell Mentor is the older generation. ISQ unit enables you to see the highest and lowest values at the same time. RFA technology has been used for past 10 years.
I hope this help.
You can buy the ISQ unit from Neoss. The president of Neoss is Dr. Neil Meredith. Dr. Meredith is also the innovator of the Ostell.
Hope this helps.
what is the difference between older and newer generation of isq measuring devices? what is improved in the newer generation?
what is the meanings of highest and lowest readings? i just want to know the reading at the moment.
I recently purchased an ISQ unit (the newest generation) from The American Institute of Implant Dentistry. I was unable to track it down anywhere else.
The meter comes in a new design,attractive, back-lit display, a solid base on , probe is made of metal, The Firmware has been upgraded with the focus on maximum user-friendliness and efficiency. With Osstell ISQ you can now get your measurements faster and more easily than ever before.
2 sec. instead off 4 ……
it reminds me of cell phone commercials
The headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden. Osstell AB is active through distributors all over the world
Leif Bjorn DDS /sweden
Ostell is supported by literature and is the only machine which provides objective readings on implant stability.