General Factors of Anatomical Variation on the Size and Number of Dental Roots Influencing the Choice of Immediate Implants

Abstract

Bone metabolism is gaining more prominence due to osseointegrated implants. Even after a minimally traumatic tooth extraction, there are natural reductions and losses in the proportions of the alveolar bone and other periodontal tissues. Maintaining these dimensions has become a challenge for researchers. Immediate implants are set in the same surgical act as tooth extraction. Implants are recommended aiming at reducing the waiting time for bone repair and thus offering the necessary stimuli to the bone for its dimensional, functional, and esthetic maintenance. Planning prior to immediate setting should take into account anatomical variations and even anomalies mainly related to the dimensions and number of tooth roots. Among the general factors of anatomical variation, those related to Gender, Age, Biotype, and Ethnicity stand out. These data were provided in studies carried out by several authors in several countries, correlating them with the dimensions and number of tooth roots. A selection of works using measurement methods as Cone Beam Computed Tomography or direct measurements in extracted teeth was carried out. Studies confirm that Panoramic Radiography presents greater distortions and does not provide sharpness for dimensional boundary markings. Significant data were obtained and confirm the correlation of these general factors of anatomical variation with the length and number of tooth roots. Further studies need to be carried out, in order to provide clinicians with details of these variants, important in the planning and prior choice of the best shape and size of the dental implant to be installed.