Prior to the launch of Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA) devices using the Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) scale in 1999, clinicians were forced to rely on unquantifiable methods (tapping with an instrument, or reverse torque testing) to determine when an implant could be loaded. These techniques were unreliable and, in the case of reverse torque tests, could actually loosen a perfectly integrated implant, resulting in failure. They could also not account for unpredictable bone conditions, which could also be missed in an X-ray. RFA devices solved this problem by providing the dentist with a consistent, scientifically backed, peer-reviewed methodology for helping to determine when to load a dental implant.
All RFA devices work by sending a signal to a peg (which is implant-specific, based generally on diameter and connection type) that is threaded into a 2-piece implant or multi-unit abutment that has been placed in bone prior to insertion of the healing cap or abutment. A magnet inside the peg resonates, which is detected by the device, displaying the ISQ measurement on a display. When compared with “tapping” stability devices (which do NOT use the ISQ scale), clinical studies have proven that RFA devices using the ISQ scale, regardless of brand, provide superior reliability for measuring the stability of implants.1,2
Before the introduction of the Penguin RFA in 2015, the available tabletop RFA devices were economically out of reach of most dentists. The Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor solved this problem by remaining the lowest-cost unit on the market, saving clinicians many hundreds to thousands of dollars. It was developed by the same Swedish engineer who originally pioneered RFA and developed the ISQ Scale for dentistry. One of the best features of the Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor is its reusable MulTipegs, which may be autoclaved at least twenty times! Competing pegs are single-use, resulting in significantly higher per-patient and inventory costs. The Penguin RFA also features twin displays for quick, easy reading without uncomfortable wrist manipulation. The ISQ number can then be noted in the patient file to support the dentist’s decision of whether to restore.
The Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor is ideal for measuring implant stability at primary insertion, as well as to monitor osseointegration over time. It is recommended that measurements be taken on the lingual and buccal side of the MulTipeg (mesial and distal, if there is room to do so). If the ISQ measurement is 70 or higher, the innumerable articles and case studies on ISQ support immediate restoration. For ISQ measurements under 70, best practice is to wait for osseointegration to take place over 3 – 4 months (or over time, as appropriate for each case) before measuring again to help determine the proper time to complete the restoration. RFA devices, including the Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor, do not replace a dentist’s good clinical judgement of when to restore an implant.
Aseptico is proud to be the master distributor of the Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor and its growing range of MulTipegs. For more information, please contact Aseptico at 425-408-9347 or visit Aseptico.com.
We invite you to watch a video demonstration of the Penguin RFA Implant Stability Monitor.
