A New Concept of Safety Distance to Place Implants in the Area of the Inferior Alveolar Canal to Avoid Neurosensory Disturbance

Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent. 2021 Jul-Aug;41(4):e139-e146. doi: 10.11607/prd.5626.

Abstract

Inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) damage following implant placement is a severe complication that can compromise a patient's quality of life. Previous studies have suggested that a safety zone of 2 mm, if maintained, might avoid this problem. This retrospective study evaluates implants placed in closer proximity to the IAN without resulting in any postoperative neurologic complications and suggests a new concept of safety distance. A total of 60 consecutive patients receiving 101 mandibular implants < 2 mm from the IAN were included in this study. All enrolled patients had a CBCT scan done for radiologic assessment before implant placement and following final restoration. Measurements were obtained through cross-sectional views using Simplant software. In patients without neurologic disturbances, a mean distance of +0.75 mm was seen from the closest portion of the implant to the nerve bundle. In cases where a direct transection and/or compression of the nerve was not observed, the patients did not experience neurosensory disturbances.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dental Implants* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Mandible
  • Mandibular Nerve / diagnostic imaging
  • Quality of Life*
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Dental Implants