Clinical Factors on Dental Implant Fractures: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Dental implant fractures pose a significant challenge to long-term treatment success. This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine the clinical factors influencing dental implant fractures (IFs). Furthermore, strategies to choose the right type of implant and prevent this complication are addressed. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Eligible studies included retrospective case–control, prospective cohort studies, and clinical trials. The initial search yielded 361 articles, of which 312 were excluded being these reviews, case reports, irrelevant, or written in languages other than English. This left 49 articles, with only 6 meeting the eligibility criteria for an in-depth review. These studies, all retrospective case–control, examine implant characteristics, patient demographics, surgical and prosthetic variables, biomechanical and functional factors, clinical and procedural variables, complications and maintenance issues. The risk of bias was assessed as low using the ROBINS-I tool. Key findings suggest a correlation between implant diameter and structural resistance, with wider implants demonstrating reduced fracture risk. Additionally, posterior regions, especially molars and premolars, exhibit higher susceptibility to IFs due to increased masticatory forces. Implant design and material may considerably influence fracture risk, with conical implants and screw-retained prostheses showing higher vulnerability. Biomechanical overload, particularly in patients with bruxism, emerges as a primary contributing factor to IFs. Prosthesis type significantly influences fracture incidence, with cantilever prostheses posing a higher risk due to increased stress. Peri-implant bone loss is strongly associated with IFs, emphasizing the need for meticulous preoperative assessments and individualized management strategies. Future research should prioritize larger and heterogeneous populations with long-term follow-up and standardized methodologies to enhance the generalizability and comparability of findings. Randomized controlled trials and biomechanical studies under controlled conditions are also essential to elucidate the complex interactions contributing to IFs and developing effective prevention strategies. Additionally, integrating patient-reported outcomes may offer a comprehensive understanding of the impact of IFs on quality of life.