An epidemiological qualitative/quantitative SWOT-AHP analysis in order to highlight the positive or critical aspects of dental implants: A pilot study

ObjectivesIn recent years, dental implants are increasing in popularity due to their high success rate, demonstrated functionality, and aesthetic treatment results. Scientific research is very active in proposing improvements in the quality and survival of implants, taking into consideration various aspects. The objective of this study was to provide a holistic epidemiologic view of the state of dental implants, using a systematic approach based on a multimethod SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis and AHP (analytical hierarchical process) qualitative-quantitative analysis to identify the characteristics that can determine their success or failure.Materials and MethodsThe study used the hybrid method of SWOT-AHP.ResultsAnalysis of the results showed that among strengths, the skill of the dentist was considered the most important factor, followed by the success of dental implants in the old people; among weaknesses, bruxism and chronic diseases were highlighted; for opportunities, biomechanical behavior, in terms of good mechanical strength and good tribological resistance to chemical and physical agents in the oral cavity, were considered the most important factors; finally, among threats, medical liability and biomechanical problems had equal weight.ConclusionsThis study applied a multimethod SWOT-AHP approach to bring out favorable or critical evidence on the topic of dental implants. In accordance with the result of the strategic vector identified in the Twisting zone Adjustment type section, showed that implant surgery is a widespread technique but always needs improvement to increase the likelihood of success and reduce the complications that can lead to implant failure. What is known? Many factors like aging, common diseases, and biomechanical issues early account for the implant success. Sinus floor elevation combined with conventional length implants results in increased cost and treatment time, risk of infection, postoperative sinusitis, limited bone gain. Shorter implants can result in increased biomechanical complications, including loosening and breakage of the implant screw and prosthesis, bone loss. Both procedures include short-term failures due to overheating of the bone during preparation of the implant site, lack of primary stability due to over-preparation or poor bone quality, overloading, and others. Bone loss due to peri-implantitis or implant fractures are the main causes of long-term implant failure. General implant survival is influenced by tobacco smoking, periodontal disease, systemic disease, bone atrophy, and related factors.What this study adds?Because the interplay or more parameters can lead to lower implant success, we introduce here a novel calculation method for these factors to provide a holistic epidemiological view of the status of dental implants, adopting a systematic approach based on: a multimethod qualitative-quantitative analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) and analytical hierarchical process (AHP) to bring out the favorable or critical aspects and define a possible strategy for action.What this study adds?Because the interplay or more parameters can lead to lower implant success, we introduce here a novel calculation method for these factors to provide a holistic epidemiological view of the status of dental implants, adopting a systematic approach based on: a multimethod qualitative-quantitative analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) and analytical hierarchical process (AHP) to bring out the favorable or critical aspects and define a possible strategy for action.