Dental Implant Identification Methods

A Narrative Review

Abstract

Dental implants are a well-accepted prosthetic alternative for missing teeth. After implant restoration, they will need maintenance in due course of time due to biological and mechanical complications, during which information about the implant system is required. Until today there is no well-established method for implant identification and conventional tools such as interpretation from radiographs need time and effort. Researchers have proposed several methods for implant identification and the review focuses on a comprehensive discussion of the proposed methods. For this review, comprehensive data from databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, was thoroughly examined ensuring the most up-to-date and relevant information regarding implant identification. The proposed methods include an interpretation from radiographs based on the implant design specifications listed, implant records, implant recognition software, retrieving implant information through a wireless reader from a radiofrequency chip fitted into an implant screw hole, QR-encoded implant identification wallet, bar code encryption by implant manufacturers, incorporating laser-etched batch and serial numbers in implant collars, Sharma Jhingta system of implant identification and artificial intelligence methods. Amongst existing methods, AI research shows potential in offering a quick and accurate method of implant identification however developing a robust AI model with a comprehensive database is a complex task and requires considerable effort and time.