The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants Edited by Steven E. Eckert, DDS, MS This highly regarded, frequently cited journal integrates clinical and scientific data to improve methods and results of oral and maxillofacial implant therapy, compiles research, technology, clinical applications, reviews of the literature, and new developments in reconstructive dentistry and implant techniques. Regular features include "Current Issues Forum," which presents opinions of invited experts on controversial issues, and "Literature Review," which keeps readers informed about implant-related publications.

This Month in JOMI - Online Featured Article:

Soft and Hard Tissue Histologic Dimensions Around Dental Implants in the Canine Restored with Smaller-Diameter Abutments: A Paradigm Shift in Peri-implant Biology
(Volume 28, Number 2, 2013)

David Cochran, DDS, PhD / Lian Ping Mau, DDS / Frank L. Higginbottom, DDS / Thomas G. Wilson, DDS / Dieter D. Bosshardt, PhD / John Schoolfield, MS / Archie A. Jones, DDS

Endosseous dental implants and their restorations have proven to be a predictable form of tooth replacement in many indications in both the maxilla and mandible. Much attention was originally focused on osseointegration, but as time passed, interest was also directed toward the soft tissue integration of the implant restoration. This came earliest in the case of non submerged implants, since the implants were transmucosal, ie, integrated with both the hard and soft tissues at the time of implant placement as opposed to submerged implants, which only initially integrate with bone tissue. Over the years, the literature became filled with publications related to how various implant designs and surfaces were integrated in the tissues, including bone-to-implant contact, marginal bone, and gingival levels. These studies and their publications have focused on individual parts and pieces in implant dentistry and do not emphasize the fact that all implant components, no matter their physical shape, generate a physiological host response to the components in every case.

The oral hard and soft tissues are comprised of bone tissue, epithelium, and connective tissue; and each of these tissues has unique characteristics. When a tooth penetrates these tissues, specific structures are formed that are capable of physiologic and pathologic reactions. This was perfectly demonstrated by the classic gingivitis studies were plaque accumulation on the tooth surface resulted in inflammation (gingivitis) every time in every patient. In some patients, plaque accumulation results in inflammation and soft and hard connective tissue loss (attachment loss and bone resorption). Similarly, crown margin placed deeply into the tissues and impinging on the connective tissue typically results in chronic inflammation and can stimulate bone loss.

Table of Contents (Volume 28, Number 2, 2013 )

The AO Silver Anniversary Summit: Impact of Biological & Technological Advances on Implant Dentistry
To see the complete 113-page published review of the 2010 AO Summit, click below:

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