Clinical outcomes and bone marker changes in postmenopausal women with dental implants: a one-year prospective study

Abstract

Objectives: The feasibility of dental implants in patients with osteoporosis remains controversial, with limited prospective studies on quantitative changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTMs). This study assessed implant survival and clinical outcomes while evaluating systemic changes during 1 year of implant treatment.

Materials and methods: Postmenopausal women requiring dental implants were enrolled at the Yonsei University Dental Hospital. BMD and BTMs were evaluated in collaboration with the endocrinology department. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (T-score ≥ -2) and Group B (T-score < -2). All implants used in the study were surface-treated with hydroxyethyl piperazine ethane sulfonic acid (HEPES), and clinical, radiographic, and systemic parameters were monitored for over 1 year.

Results: Between April 2022 and May 2024, 45 implants were placed in 36 patients (mean age: 68 years). Group A included 17 patients with 21 implants (mean age: 66 years), and Group B included 19 patients with 24 implants (mean age: 70 years). The cumulative survival rate was 100%. Resonance frequency analysis at 12 months revealed a mean implant stability tester value of 71.4 ± 5.52, indicating excellent osseointegration. Peri-implant bone loss averaged 0.54 ± 0.35 mm. No implant failures occurred, with stable plaque scores, probing depths, and bleeding upon probing. BMD and BTMs changes were minimal.

Conclusions: Both groups achieved high implant survival and stable clinical outcomes. Systemic evaluations confirmed only minor changes in BMD and BTMs over 1 year. Larger multicenter studies are required to confirm the systemic safety of dental implants in patients with osteoporosis.

Clinical relevance: Dental implants show excellent survival and stability in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, with minimal impact on bone density and turnover-supporting their safe use in this population.

Clinical trial registration: This study was prospectively registered at the Clinical Research Information Service of the National Research Institute of Health, Republic of Korea (KCT0007100). The registration details can be accessed at https://cris.nih.go.kr .