Aim: Insertion torque and Periotest are two noninvasive methods to measure dental implant stability. The objective of this study was to assess the correlation of these nondestructive analytical tools for determining primary and short-term implant stability in the maxilla.

Materials and methods: Primary implant stability of 200 implants in 60 patients was measured by means of dynamic insertion torque and Periotest device. For each implant an individual torque curve was detected during implant insertion. In addition the damping capacity assessment (Periotest) was measured after insertion as well as 10 weeks afterwards, following implant-uncovering. The results of both methods were compared and correlated as to primary stability.

Results: The comparison of insertion torque curves and Periotest showed statistically significant correlation of medial torque and initial Periotest. Periotest after 10 weeks, performed directly after implant-uncovering, showed a significant correlation with primary stability.

Conclusions: Insertion torque and Periotest are both noninvasive diagnostic devices, measuring implant stability. Both are useful and comparably reliable, showing a strong association with each other in assessing implant primary stability. Dynamic insertion torque varied according to bone quality but did not impair final short-term results of definitive implant stability.

Conflict of interest: None declared.