Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study investigates the influence of different irrigation systems on thermal management during implant osteotomy, along with their effects on implant stability and peri-implant tissue health. METHODS: The study comprised an initial in vitro phase using freshly sacrificed goat mandibles to compare internal and external irrigation systems versus external irrigation alone. Temperature variations were measured at multiple distances from the osteotomy site. Subsequently, a clinical trial included 26 patients receiving 30 implants, where periodontal pocket depth, crestal bone loss, and implant stability were assessed over a one-year follow-up period. RESULTS: In the in vitro phase, both irrigation methods showed comparable thermal management, with no significant temperature differences observed between groups. Clinical outcomes from the trial demonstrated stable implant integration and negligible peri-implant tissue complications across both irrigation approaches. Periodontal pocket depths and crestal bone loss were similar between groups, indicating no significant difference in long-term outcomes. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the effectiveness of both internal and external irrigation systems, as well as external irrigation alone, in minimizing thermal damage during implant osteotomy. These irrigation methods support stable implant integration and preserve peri-implant tissue health over a one-year period. Optimized irrigation techniques are crucial for enhancing implant dentistry practices and ensuring favorable patient outcomes.