Clinical Study, May 2024: Immediate Placement of Zirconia Implants in the Posterior Region

Advanced techniques for preserving bone and soft tissue stability in molar implant cases

Introduction

Maintaining peri-implant tissue stability is essential for the long-term success of dental implants, especially in the posterior maxilla. This clinical study reports on the immediate placement of zirconia implants in four patients with complex anatomical and prosthetic challenges. The aim was to evaluate osseointegration, marginal bone stability, and the natural emergence profile in molar regions.

Objectives

• Maximize marginal bone preservation to prevent tissue recession
• Ensure primary stability of immediate implants
• Achieve harmonious integration with the surrounding dentition
• Maintain long-term function and esthetics in the posterior region

Methodology

• Surgical Approach:
  • Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to assess alveolar bone height and septum type
  • Minimally invasive, supracrestal immediate implantation
  • Use of SDS zirconia implants with a tulip-shaped “balcony” design for enhanced primary stability
• Augmentation and Tissue Support:
  • Placement of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF and i-PRF) around, under, and over the implants
  • Collagen blocks (Condress) to stabilize the alveolar ridge and fill defects
  • Optional healing discs to secure PRF and collagen grafts
• Postoperative Support:
  • Pre- and postoperative supplementation with vitamin D, K2, C, and minerals to optimize bone healing
  • Periotest evaluation to confirm ideal implant stability
• Follow-up:
  • Clinical and radiographic assessment at 10 days, 2–3 months, and 12 months
  • Evaluation of bone loss, soft tissue condition, and emergence profile

Clinical Relevance

• Immediate implantation with PRF and collagen: Supports preservation of bone and soft tissue
• Tulip-shaped implant design: Provides stable emergence profiles in molar regions
• Tissue-level configuration: Minimizes bone loss at the implant-abutment interface
• Long-term stability: 100% implant survival after 12 months, with minimal marginal bone loss

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that immediate zirconia implants in the posterior region, combined with PRF and collagen augmentation, provide reliable preservation of bone and soft tissue. Precise implant placement, achievement of apical primary stability, and targeted tissue augmentation allow for functionally and aesthetically successful outcomes. For patients seeking metal-free solutions, SDS zirconia implants offer a safe and effective alternative to titanium.

References

The full case report, "Esthetics and Functionality of Tissue-Level Zirconia Implants in the Posterior Region," is available in the May 2024 ePaper of ZMK – Zahnheilkunde Management Kultur (Spitta Verlag).

Treating dentists and co-authors of the study:

Prof. Dr. med. dent. E. Schnurr (Scientific Advisor, SDS)

Provides scientific guidance for SWISS DENTAL SOLUTIONS. She researches the oral microbiome, biofilm infections, and their impact on overall health: from clinical research and data analysis to drug development.

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Dr. Gregor Hočevar

Dr. dent. med., M.Sc. 2nd Level University Master in Oral Implantology, Specialist in Biological Dentistry and Ceramic Implants (ISMI Germany, IAOCI USA), leader in biological dentistry, founder of Center Hočevar, Swiss Dental Solutions Ambassador.

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