Data assessment
An independent expert dentist examined the patients before the surgery (Implants that soundly maintained their function were considered to have survived. Removals or spontaneous losses of implants were defined as failure [The Periotest instrument (Medizintechnik Gulden, Bensheim, Germany) was used to measure MI stability [Stability measurements at mini-implant using the Periotest device (top) and the resonance frequency analysis (bottom). SmartPeg prototype (right) was put on the mini-implant and connected using a lateral screwThe more stable the bone anchorage, the quicker the percussion is. The instrument measures the time that the percussion rod is in contact, with a shorter contact time indicating more stability. The computer converts the information to the Periotest value (PTV) on a scale between − 8 and + 50. PTVs below 0 are intended to be indicative for osseointegrated conventional implants [Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) with the Osstell device (Osstell, Gothenburg, Sweden) was additionally used to measure MI stability [