Resonance frequency analysis

Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is a method used to determine stability (the level of osseointegration) in dental implants.[1][2] The stability is presented as an implant stability quotient (ISQ) value. The higher the ISQ value the higher the stability.

Utilizing RFA involves sending magnetic pulses to a small metal rod temporarily attached to the implant. As the rod vibrates, the probe reads its resonance frequency and translates it into an ISQ value.

RFA measurements are used to assess the stability of the implant immediately after placement, as well as to measure the stability during the healing time. This helps the dentist determine if further healing time (osseointegration) is needed before the prosthetic tooth is attached, as well as to identify at-risk patients with compromised bone tissue, or other risk factors.[3]

  1. ^ Bilbao A et al. Assessment of dental implant stability in osseodistraction-generated bone: a resonance frequency analysis. Clin Oral Implants Res Apr 28 2009
  2. ^ Veltri M et al. Soft bone primary stability of 3 different miniscrews for orthodontic anchorage: a resonance frequency investigation. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2009 May;135(5):642-8.
  3. ^ Valderrama, Pilar (2007). "Evaluation of Two Different Resonance Frequency Devices to Detect Implant Stability: A Clinical Trial" (PDF). Journal of Periodontology. 78 (2): 262–272. doi:10.1902/jop.2007.060143. PMID 17274715.