Mechanical state assessment of the implant-bone continuum: a better understanding of the Periotest method.

The aim of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the Periotest method when used to detect subclinical mobility of osseointegrated implants. Four hundred two screw-shaped implants were tested with the Periotest device at the time of abutment connection. Several factors, including jaw location, implant and abutment length, and gender, were related to Periotest values (PTVs). Implants located in the anterior region of the mandible showed the lowest mean PTV (-3.2). The influence of abutment and implant length upon PTVs could be detected in the maxilla. In the mandible, only abutment length had influence on PTVs. Women showed higher mean Periotest scores in the maxilla compared with men. This difference was not found in the mandible. The Periotest method, its clinical limitations, and the meaning of a given PTV are also discussed.