Systemic medications and implant success

Abstract

Dental implants require healthy bone for successful osseointegration. However, bone health can become compromised by ageing and/or the presence of underlying medical conditions. The severity and complications associated with these medical conditions usually indicate that they require medication for successful management. Some of these medications may undoubtedly exert effects on bone through direct or indirect mechanisms and therefore, may also affect osseointegration. These include antihypertensives, oral hypoglycaemic agents (OHAs)/insulin, hormones (corticosteroid, thyroxin and tamoxifen) and anti-resorptive agents including bisphosphonates and anti-angiogenic agents. Part One of this paper reviews the current knowledge regarding the effects of antihypertensives, OHAs and insulin on the outcome of implant therapy.