Infrared thermal mapping of osteotomy: influence of drill diameter and implant system.

Objective: Drill diameter and dental implant system influence heat generation during surgical osteotomy, affecting friction and temperature, which can impact osseointegration. The aim was to evaluate the influence of drill diameter, speed, and dental implant system on thermographic-infrared changes during surgical osteotomy. Materials and methods: An in vitro experimental design was used. The sample size was calculated using pilot study data, resulting in 120 specimens divided into three groups (n = 40) for each implant system (Arcsys, NeoBiotech, Osstem). The cow rib bones were prepared and disinfected with 10% sodium hypochlorite and 0.12% chlorhexidine, then dried with sterile gauze for 72 h. Implant systems were calibrated per manufacturer specifications. Surgical drilling was performed at 1,200 rpm and 40 Ncm torque using the Implantmed Plus motor. Thermographic measurements were taken using a Fluke TiS55 camera at specific bone points. Results: The Osstem system generated the highest temperature with the second drill, reaching 25.85 ± 1.97°C. The Arcys system showed a notable temperature increase from 23.52 ± 1.09°C to 25.57 ± 0.58°C with the second drill. NeoBiotech exhibited an increase in temperature from 22.75 ± 0.69 °C to 25.57 ± 1.72 °C following the use of the third drill. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences in both basal and pilot drill temperatures (°C) across three implant systems (p < 0.00 for both comparisons). Linear regression showed that basal temperature (β = -0.61°C, 95% CI: -0.88 to -0.34), pilot drill (β = 0.43°C, 95% CI: 0.17-0.69) and second drill (β = 0.76°C, 95% CI: 0.65-0.86) were significant predictors of final drilling temperature, while implant system had no significant effect. All temperature results are within safe limits for an osteotomy. Conclusion: The study found significant variations in temperature increase based on the implant system and drill diameter. Baseline temperature, pilot drill, and second drill temperatures were significant predictors of the third final drill temperature, while the implant system itself was not a significant factor.