Effect of implant placement on the expression of osteogenic genes in the root of the adjacent tooth: An animal study.

BACKGROUND

Dental implants are a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. However, the effects of implant placement on adjacent teeth, particularly at the molecular level, remain incompletely understood. Osteogenic genes play a crucial role in bone formation and remodeling, and their expression in the roots of adjacent teeth may be influenced by the presence of dental implants.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of implant placement on the expression of osteogenic genes, specifically osteopontin (OPN) and osteocalcin (OC), in the root of the adjacent tooth.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

An experimental study was conducted from January to June 2024 using 20 Wistar rats. Implants were placed adjacent to one of the teeth in each rat, while the contralateral tooth served as the control. Tissue samples were collected from the root of the tooth adjacent to the implant (implant group) and from the corresponding contralateral tooth (control group). RNA was extracted and analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to assess the expression levels of the OPN and OC genes. Western blot was performed to evaluate protein expression.

RESULTS

The expression of OC was lower in the teeth adjacent to the implants compared with the control group; however, this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.082). No significant correlation was found between the expression of OC or OPN and the sex of the rats (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Implant placement has a significant influence on the expression of osteogenic genes in the root of the adjacent tooth, particularly by increasing the expression of OC. These findings suggest that dental implants may influence the molecular environment of adjacent teeth, potentially affecting long-term implant success and the health of adjacent teeth. Understanding these molecular changes can help optimize implant procedures and manage potential complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes.