Why SmartPegs are single use or reusable – and why it matters

SmartPegs are delicate, precision engineered components that play a central role in the Osstell ISQ method. When attached to an implant or abutment, the SmartPeg is excited by magnetic pulses from the Osstell instrument, and the resulting resonance frequency is converted into an ISQ value. For this process to work reliably, the SmartPeg must be in perfect condition and firmly attached.

Why single use SmartPegs are used only once

Single use SmartPegs are made from aluminium, ensuring there is no risk of damaging the implant’s internal threads during attachment. Because aluminium is a soft metal, the threads wear quickly, and even minor changes in their shape can affect the precision of ISQ measurements.
Other key reasons for single use handling include:

1. Designed for single‑session precision
   Osstell SmartPegs are made from aluminium to protect the implant’s internal connection. Because even minor wear can affect the attachment and resonance behaviour, the single‑use SmartPeg is designed for one treatment session before being disposed of.
2. Consistent, validated condition straight out of the sterile package
   Single‑use SmartPegs are supplied sterile and in their original, untouched condition. This ensures that the magnet and connection surfaces have had no prior exposure to cleaning agents, moisture or handling, all of which can subtly influence the components over time. Using a new SmartPeg for each treatment session guarantees that its properties are exactly as validated for that single use.
3. Hygienic assurance with a sterile, ready‑to‑use workflow
   Single‑use SmartPegs are delivered sterile and are intended for one treatment session, ensuring the connection surfaces and magnet are always in their original sterile condition. This removes the need for reprocessing and supports clinics that prioritise a straightforward, single‑treatment workflow.
4. Even small changes affect ISQ results
   The Osstell instrument relies on a 100% intact connection between the SmartPeg and the implant. Tiny surface changes – invisible to the eye – can alter resonance frequency enough to produce misleading ISQ values.

How reusable SmartPegs differ

Reusable SmartPegs, introduced in 2026, are designed specifically to withstand multiple cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation cycles without compromising ISQ accuracy.
Their durability comes from:

• Protective surface coating
  Shielding the aluminium from wear, oxidation and corrosion during reprocessing.
• A coated magnet
  Protects against moisture and chemicals, ensuring consistent resonance behaviour.
• Precision validation
  Reusable SmartPegs are validated for up to 20 reprocessing cycles, provided their condition remains intact.
• Clear reprocessing requirements
  They must be cleaned and sterilised before first use and then reprocessed after every patient treatment, following the official guidelines.
  

This engineering allows the reusable SmartPeg to deliver the same validated ISQ accuracy as the single use version – but only when used within its specified lifetime and kept in good condition.

Two SmartPeg versions, one validated ISQ method

Regardless of whether you choose the single use or reusable SmartPeg, both options:

• are made from aluminium and thereby backed by more that 1500 studies
• are precisely calibrated for specific implant systems
• work exclusively with Osstell instruments
• deliver the same ISQ accuracy when used as intended

Using a worn, damaged or incorrect SmartPeg may prevent proper resonance or produce inaccurate ISQ values.

Understanding which version to use – and when

Whether single‑use or reusable, every SmartPeg is designed to protect the implant connection, uphold the integrity of the ISQ concept and ensure that each measurement is both reliable and clinically meaningful – so you can trust the measured value, the only true value.