Retrospective assessment of survival rate for short endosseous dental implants.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the survival rate of short implants that were placed in a residency program. In addition, the potential influence of diabetes, smoking, sinus grafting, guided bone regeneration, and implant type on survival was analyzed.

Methods: Through a retrospective chart review, patient information and parameters for short implants being equal or less than 10 mm and regular implants being more than 10 mm were collected.

Short-term evaluation of bioactive glass using the modified osteotome sinus elevation technique.

Purpose: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the dimensional changes of bioactive glass (BG) that occur after sinus bone grafting using a modified osteotome technique and simultaneous implant placement.

Methods: Seventy-six subjects received 87 implants with a modified osteotome sinus elevation technique using BG bone graft and simultaneous implant placement. The radiographs taken at the time of implant placement and at the time of implant uncovery were retrospectively evaluated to assess the degree of BG dimensional changes.

Heritability of alveolar bone loss from periodontal disease in a baboon population: a pilot study.

Background: Reports from studies of twins, disease aggregation in families, animal models for periodontal disease, and various genetic-analysis studies have determined that genetics plays a role in the susceptibility to periodontal disease. The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the effect of genetics on periodontal disease by evaluating the heritability of alveolar bone loss in a captive baboon population.

Methods: A collection of baboon skulls from a pedigreed colony (for which scientists and veterinarians maintain complete genealogic and veterinary records) was obtained from the Southwest National Primate Research Center, San Antonio, Texas and used in this pilot study.

One-year effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on chronic periodontitis.

Background: A previous study reported by this group found that patients in periodontal maintenance programs taking vitamin D and calcium supplementation had a trend for better periodontal health compared to patients not taking supplementation. The objective of the present study is to determine, for the same cohort of subjects, whether such differences persist over a 1-year period.

Methods: Fifty-one patients enrolled in maintenance programs from two dental clinics were recruited.

Cross-sectional study of vitamin D and calcium supplementation effects on chronic periodontitis.

Background: A low dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium hastens bone loss and osteoporosis. Because vitamin D metabolites may also alter the inflammatory response and have antimicrobial effects, we studied whether the use of vitamin D and calcium supplements affects periodontal disease status.

Methods: A cohort of 51 subjects receiving periodontal maintenance therapy was recruited from two dental clinics; 23 were taking vitamin D (>or=400 IU/day) and calcium (>or=1,000 mg/day) supplementation, and 28 were not taking such supplementation.