Use of Narrow-Diameter Implants in the Posterior Jaw: A Systematic Review

Statement of Problem: Evidence is limited on the efficacy of narrow-diameter implants (NDIs) in the posterior jaw. Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the survival of NDIs and provide guidelines for their safe use. Materials and Methods: Electronic search of the English-language literature enriched by hand search to identify suitable publications was made. Only peer-reviewed clinical studies published from January 1990 through March 2014 were included. Results: Seventeen studies with a total of 1644 implants met the inclusion criteria, with an observation period from 1 up to 12 years. The mean survival rate of 98.6% was reported. Technical and other complications were observed. Conclusion: Short-term clinical data suggest that NDIs may serve in the posterior jaw as an alternative to standard-diameter implants. However, certain clinical conditions must be observed to assure long-term success.