Comprehensive Approaches to Managing Ridge Atrophy with Basal Implants: A Systematic Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Dental implants are a transformative solution for tooth loss, with basal implantology providing a reliable alternative for patients with severe bone resorption or poor bone quality. Unlike conventional implants, basal implants anchor in dense cortical bone, enabling immediate functionality and eliminating the need for invasive procedures such as grafting or sinus lifts. Materials and Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA and Cochrane Collaboration guidelines was conducted to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and patient satisfaction associated with basal implants. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase databases (2013–2022) identified studies meeting inclusion criteria: clinical trials on humans, published in English, specifically investigating basal implants. Exclusion criteria included reviews, animal studies, and studies published before 2012. Data from selected studies were extracted and analyzed for bias and outcomes. Results: From 438 identified records, 21 studies met inclusion criteria, reporting basal implant survival rates exceeding 95% over follow-up periods ranging from 1 to 10 years. Immediate loading protocols demonstrated high success, with minimal complications. Patients reported enhanced satisfaction due to reduced invasiveness and quicker functional restoration. Complications were minimal and manageable. Discussion: Basal implants show significant advantages in cases of severe bone resorption or poor bone quality. Their design allows for anchoring in dense cortical bone, providing stability and immediate functionality. They reduce the need for complex surgical procedures, improving cost efficiency and patient comfort. However, study heterogeneity limits definitive conclusions, necessitating further research with standardized protocols. Conclusion: Basal implants are a reliable alternative to conventional implants, offering high survival rates, reduced treatment times, and improved patient outcomes. They are particularly suitable for challenging anatomical conditions, marking a significant advancement in dental implantology. Future large-scale studies are essential to establish their long-term performance and comparative benefits.