Evaluation of the ACE Dental Implant

While the external hex dental implant design has had very good clinical success, it is limited by retention screw loosening at the junction of the implant fixture and abutment; a situation that leads to micro-movement between components.

A number of clinical complications may arise when implant components separate. Micro-movement between the implant abutment and seating platform is thought to contribute to the formation of a "biological gap", the most notable consequence being gradual resorption of crestal alveolar bone over time.

We hypothesize that the "ACE CONNECT" two-piece implant design with an internal connection will limit screw loosening by providing a stable junction between the body of the implant and the abutment; a more stable junction will limit micro-movement and prevent the formation of a gap between components. Limiting the gap will lead to less inflammation of peri-implant soft tissues and reduced resorption of bone adjacent to the implant.

Inclusion criteria

• Need for replacement of non-adjacent missing teeth with dental implants
• Edentulous in the area for more than 2 months
• Minimum native bone height and width to receive a 10mm X 4mm implant

Exclusion criteria

• Untreated decay or periodontal disease in residual dentition
• Need for bone or soft-tissue augmentation in the proposed implant site
• Pregnancy
• Consistent use of medications likely to compromise bone healing
• Chronic disease condition likely to compromise bone healing
• Consistent smoking over 10 cigarettes during the immediate past 6 months