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Purpose: To evaluate the influence of immediate loading on the osseointegration and bone density of implants placed in a healed alveolar bone crest and supporting single crowns. Materials and Methods: Two solid titanium transmucosal mini-implants were placed in the distal regions of the mandible in 14 patients. One mini-implant was immediately functionally loaded, whereas the other was left unloaded. After 2 months of healing, biopsy samples were retrieved and the levels of new bone, old bone, and total bone (new + old) were assessed. Results: Histologic examination was performed on biopsies from 12 patients (n = 12). The new bone-to-implant contact percentage (BIC%) was 40.3% ± 16.8% and 55.1% ± 19.1% (P = .043) at the unloaded and loaded sites, respectively; in addition, the total BIC% was 44.9% ± 17.0% and 59.5% ± 18.8%, respectively (P = .034). The new bone density was 45.9% ± 11.6% for the unloaded implants and 45.9% ± 16.7% for the loaded implants (P = .622). Conclusions: Immediate loading had a positive effect on bone apposition at the implant surface, but no effect on bone density was observed after 2 months of healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the impact of implant placement at different time intervals on the esthetic and clinical outcomes in the esthetic zone. Materials and Methods: A literature screening was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), ScienceDirect, and Cochrane databases. Relevant articles were included according to selection criteria and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data was collected from studies published from 2017 to 2022 in English. Results: Nine articles were included, in which a total of 495 implants were placed; 250 of the implants were immediate, 109 were early, and 136 were delayed. Immediate implant placement (IIP) showed no statistically significant difference in Pink Esthetic Score (PES) compared with delayed implant placement (DIP). IIP showed significantly higher PES in comparison with early implant placement (EIP) (mean difference [MD] = -0.76; 95% CI = -1.50 to -0.02; P = .04). The probing depth (PD) was considerably greater for immediate implants than for delayed implants (MD = -0.62; 95% CI = -1.05 to -0.18; P = .005), and the Plaque Index (PI) was statistically greater for early implants compared with immediate implants (MD = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.11 to 0.19; P < .00001). All other soft tissue outcomes showed equal results. The marginal bone loss (MBL) was statistically higher in early implants compared with immediate implants (MD = 0.09; 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.16; P = .02). Conclusions: IIP had significantly superior PES, MBL, and PI results when compared with EIP. The PD was significantly higher for immediate implants compared with delayed implants. All other outcomes showed no significant difference between the three implant groups. It is important to highlight the limitations of this review such as the small number of studies included and the few reports on esthetic indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Marginal bone resorption (MBR) around dental implants may sometimes be a self-limiting condition due to balancing immunologic reactions against utilized materials rather than a progressive bacterial infection. Contrary to previous assumptions from ligature-induced experimental peri-implantitis studies, a recent 8-week experiment by the present authors showed that marginal ligatures trigger an inflammatory immune response, resulting in bone resorption around implants in the absence of plaque. The present study aimed to investigate whether this inflammatory/immunologic reaction attenuates or progresses toward implant failure after a longer healing time (12 weeks). Materials and Methods: Sterile silk ligatures were placed around the top of titanium (Ti) implants and compressed against the femoral cortical bone plate of six rabbits. A nonligated implant was used as a control. After 12 weeks of submerged healing, ground sections of implants and surrounding tissues were investigated with light microscopy. The marginal soft tissues were also analyzed using selected quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) markers. Results: Histologically, the ligatures were outlined by immune cells, including multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs), with adjacent fibrous encapsulation and resorbed peripheral bone that contrasted from the osseointegrated nonligated control implants. The difference in expression of qPCR markers was not significant, but > two-fold upregulation of markers CDIIb, IL1β, ARG1, NCF1, and CD4 and > twofold downregulation of CD8 indicated a mild, focal inflammatory/immune response against the ligatures compared to controls, with upregulation of M1 and M2 macrophages, neutrophils, and helper T-cells as well as downregulation of killer T cells. Further, the bone formation markers OC and ALPL were > two-fold downregulated (consistent with the lack of osseointegration of the ligatures) compared to control implants. Conclusions: Marginal silk ligatures trigger an inflammatory/immune response and aseptic bone resorption around implants. Compared to the previous 8-week study, the inflammatory reaction against the silk appears to attenuate with time, with only a mild persisting inflammation that may block osseointegration; instead, a fibrous tissue encapsulation-type reaction is maintained. This may explain why traditional ligature experiments have required regular exchange of ligatures for the bone resorption to progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore the effect of adding an allogeneic soft tissue graft at the time of single implant placement using a fully digital workflow for implant placement and restoration without making either analog or digital impressions. Materials and Methods: A prospective randomized clinical study was performed enrolling 39 participants requiring single-tooth implants. The patients were randomized into one of two groups: (1) the graft group, which received an allogeneic dermal graft at the time of implant placement (n = 19), or (2) the nongraft group (n = 20). A fully digital surgical and restorative protocol was implemented for both groups. Intraoral scans were taken before implant placement (T0), at the time of final crown delivery (T1), and 1 year after placement (T2). Intraoral scans were aligned using Geomagic Control X 2020 software, and linear and volumetric changes in buccal tissues were measured at T0, T1, and T2. Implant survival, probing depths (PDs), and complications were recorded. Participants were asked to complete an Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14 survey at T0 and T2. Marginal bone levels were measured at T0 and T2 on periapical radiographs. Results: Overall, 39 participants completed surgery and restoration in the incisor, canine, premolar, and molar sites. Two early failures were recorded in central incisor positions (95% survival). Crown delivery without complication from the digital workflow (impressionless) was achieved for 36 out of 39 cases (92%), and implant depth control was the main challenge. At 1 year, 37 participants attended the follow-up appointment. Both groups showed gain in buccal tissue thickness without significant differences between the two groups for both linear and volumetric measurements (P > .05). Soft tissue grafting was associated with minimal added morbidity. The interproximal marginal bone changes were recorded as follows: -0.16 mm mesial and -0.12 mm distal for the graft group and -0.01 mm mesial and -0.11 mm distal for the nongraft group (P = .07 for mesial and .83 for distal). The OHIP score was significantly reduced at T2 compared to T0 (P = .003) for the entire cohort. Conclusions: Augmentation of the alveolar mucosa on the buccal aspect of single-tooth implants is associated with clinically favorable outcomes. A fully digital workflow has been validated to permit crown delivery on CAD/CAM abutments without implant impressions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healing outcomes of periodontal and implant-related regenerative procedures are closely related to wound stability, which is partially determined by biomechanical properties and behaviors of oral mucosal tissues. Studies on soft tissue behavior under biomechanical forces in oral regeneration models are scarce. Thus, this review aims to (1) contrast the microstructural differences between the attached gingiva (AM) and lining (LM) mucosa; (2) evaluate biomechanical behaviors of the two mucosal types; and (3) relate residual flap tension to the prevalence of wound opening after regenerative procedures. Compositional and structural differences between the AM and LM explain their biomechanical property differences. Wound destabilizers, including tissue recoil stemming from its viscoelastic property, muscle pull, and inflammatory edema (created after the flap-releasing procedure for primary wound closure) interfere with wound stability. Residual flap tension < 0.05 N is a prerequisite for sustained wound closure. Tissues under stress can exert negative cellular changes, resulting in necrosis and wound dehiscence. Biomechanical properties and the variations between AM and LM dictate the degree of wound stability. Efforts should be made to reduce the negative impact of the potential destabilizers to optimize wound stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) therapy compared with unassisted socket healing (USH) in attenuating interproximal soft tissue atrophy. Adult patients who underwent maxillary single-tooth extraction with or without ARP therapy were included. Surface scans were obtained and CBCT was performed to digitally assess interproximal soft tissue height changes and measure facial bone thickness (FBT), respectively. Logistic regression models were conducted to investigate the individual effect of demographic and clinical variables. Ninety -six subjects (USH = 49; ARP = 47) constituted the study population. Linear soft tissue assessments revealed a significant reduction of the interproximal soft tissue over time within and between groups (P < .0001). ARP therapy significantly attenuated interproximal soft tissue height reduction compared to USH: -2.0 ± 0.9 mm mesially for USH vs -1.0 ± 0.5 mm mesially for ARP; -1.9 ± 0.7 mm distally for USH vs -1.1 ± 0.5 mm distally for ARP (P < .0001). Thin (< 1 mm) facial bone thickness (FBT) upon extraction was associated with greater interproximal soft tissue atrophy compared to thick FBT (> 1 mm), independent of the treatment received (P < .0001). Nevertheless, ARP therapy resulted in better preservation of interproximal soft tissue height, especially in thin bone phenotype, by a factor of 2 for the mesial site (+1.3 mm) and by a factor of 1.6 for the distal site (+0.9 mm). This study demonstrated that ARP therapy largely attenuates interproximal soft tissue dimensional reduction after maxillary single-tooth extraction compared to USH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the survival, marginal bone loss (MBL), and prosthetic complications of 4.5-mm extra-short implants and longer implants splinted to the short implants via the restoration. A retrospective controlled cohort study was performed. The 4.5-mm extra-short group (study group; SG) included 48 consecutively placed implants. The control group (CG) included 48 implants splinted to the extra-short implants. The same surgical team treated the 39 included patients, and all implants were restored with a screw-retained fixed restoration and intermediate abutments. Immediate and conventionally loaded implants were included. All implants were in function during the follow-up period (14 ± 3.4 and 17 ± 13 months for SG and CG, respectively). No differences in technical complications were observed between the groups (one and two cases of screw loosening for SG and CG, respectively; two provisional prosthesis fractures for SG; P = .310). Marginal bone stability was similar for SG and CG at the mesial level (-0.01 ± 0.28 mm for SG vs -0.18 ± 0.72 mm for CG; P = .270) and at the distal level (0.02 ± 0.39 mm for SG vs -0.18 ± 0.68 mm for CG; P = .076). The same good clinical performance could be observed for 4.5-mm implants and longer implants under the same prosthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diverse surgical approaches, such as resective, reconstructive, and combined therapy, have been proposed for peri-implantitis treatment. A resective surgical approach with an adjunctive modified implantoplasty refers to the modification of the implant body into a constricted area to mimic a "waist" silhouette. This modified technique forms an adequate concave smooth area that may favor the outcomes of resective surgical therapy for soft tissue adaptation, biofilm control, and possible peri-implant bone gain over the long term. The present case series aimed to exhibit the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of resective surgery with adjunctive implantoplasty over a 6- to 11-year follow-up. Four patients presenting four implants (one per patient) diagnosed with peri-implantitis (according to an established case definition) were included in the present case series. Patients underwent resective surgery, a modified implantoplasty approach, and implant surface decontamination. After surgical therapy, clinical and radiographic outcomes such as bleeding on probing (BoP), suppuration on probing (SoP), probing depth (PD), marginal recession (MR), modified plaque index (mPI), and marginal bone levels (MBLs) were recorded over a long-term follow-up period. Over the 6- to 11-year follow-up, mean BoP, PD, and SoP scores amounted to 17% ± 24%, 3.2 ± 0.66 mm, and 0%, respectively. Mean BoP, PD, and SoP scores were reduced by 67% ± 24%, 2.5 ± 1.26 mm, and 100%, respectively. Radiographic analysis revealed a mean radiographic bone gain of 3.1 ± 1.84 mm. Peri-implant marginal bone loss surface area decreased by 5.7 ± 3.77 mm2 over the long-term follow-up. Resective therapy with adjunctive implantoplasty promoted favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes at treated peri-implantitis sites over a long-term period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface contaminants on customized implant abutments could trigger an inflammatory response in the peri-implant tissues. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to assess the radiographic bone changes around implants restored with customized, platform-switched abutments, with and without autoclave treatment, 12 months after definitive restoration. Dental implants were placed 1 mm subcrestally in 64 systemically healthy patients (mean age: 63.3 ± 10.0 years; 31 patients had a history of periodontitis) to replace single or multiple missing teeth. According to a randomization list, abutments were subjected to steam and autoclave sterilization (43 implants, test group) or steam cleaning alone (44 implants, control group). Periapical standardized radiographs were taken at implant placement, prosthetic abutment connection, and 12 months after definitive cement-retained restoration. All implants were clinically stable without any sign of infection at the 12-month follow-up. An average marginal bone loss of 0.25 ± 0.19 mm was found in the test group compared to 0.35 ± 0.23 mm in the control group (no statistically significant difference), while the percentage of bleeding sites was significantly higher in the control group (8.7% ± 13.1% vs 19.1% ± 19.8%; P = .035). Autoclave treatment of customized abutments seems to reduce the inflammatory response around subcrestally placed implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the complications, satisfaction, and quality of life of patients rehabilitated with delayed and immediate loading of single crowns. Materials and Methods: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases up to February 2023. Only prospective studies and randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials comparing immediate and delayed loading were included. For the quantitative analysis, dichotomous and consistent variables were evaluated with a 95% confidence interval. Results: A total of 20 studies were evaluated. No statistically significant difference was observed between protocols: satisfaction (I²: 0%; P = .42), quality of life (I²: 0 %; P = .05), biologic complications (I²: 9%; P = .17), mechanical complications (I²: 58%; P = .84), and survival rate (I²: 0%; P = .38). The subgroup analysis showed significant differences only for marginal bone loss (MBL) when immediate implants were placed in the mandible (I²: 15%; P = .01) and posterior zone (I²: 0%; P = .001). Conclusions: Complications and patient-centered outcomes for immediate single-implant crowns were comparable to delayed loading. Scientific evidence showed no significant difference between loading protocols for survival rates. Note that several factors could interfere with the complication events, implant failures, and MBL. The subgroup analysis showed that only immediate implants placed in the posterior mandible had a higher and statistically significant mean MBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the healing process of the extraction socket and the dimensional changes that occur after alveolar ridge preservation utilizing a polylactide-co-glycolide scaffold (PLGA). Materials and Methods: The present study involved the extraction of 28 teeth from 14 patients. The total number of sockets was 28, which were divided into two groups consisting of 14 test sockets and 14 control sockets. The study group (SG) was subjected to socket preservation with a PLGA scaffold while the control group (CG) was left for spontaneous healing. The dimensions were measured before and after operation at 1, 3, and 5 mm below the alveolar crest horizontally and the height of buccolingual bone vertically. Results: According to the histologic analyses, the PLGA scaffold was resorbed within 4 months. CBCT imaging revealed a decrease in the horizontal crest dimension at three distinct coronoapical levels in SG, measuring 2.05 ± 1.05 mm at -1 mm, 1.51 ± 0.89 mm at -3 mm, and 0.92 ± 0.7 mm at -5 mm. CG showed readings of 1.22 ± 1 at -1 mm, 0.92 ± 0.67 at -3 mm, and 0.73 ± 0.69 at -5 mm. In comparison to CG, SG showed a significant reduction in horizontal losses at -1 mm. Vertical crest dimensions decreased by 1.64 ± 1.11 mm for the buccal bone height and by 1.56 ± 1.08 mm for lingual bone height in SG; in CG, the buccal and lingual bone height had mean values of 2.08 ± 1.44 mm and 1.73 ± 1.27 mm, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference observed in the vertical losses between the groups. Conclusions: Following a period of 4 months, the PLGA scaffold was completely resorbed. Based on CBCT measurements, horizontal resorption was lower than CG at -1 mm coronally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of marked horizontal bone atrophy represents a critical challenge for traditional implantology procedures. For this purpose, clinicians have developed several protocols and procedures to allow the most suitable and accurate surgical and prosthetic implant rehabilitation. Despite the development of guided bone regeneration methods and the use of small-diameter implants, the rehabilitation of thin bone areas is a clinical dilemma for the medium- and long-term survival of implant-prosthetic therapies. This clinical case evaluates the use of wedge-shaped implants for the full-arch rehabilitation of an atrophic maxilla with a thin ridge. This treatment choice allowed a minimally invasive rehabilitation, avoiding regenerative bone surgery, while respecting biologic and prosthetic limits. Furthermore, evaluation of the implant stability quotient and marginal bone loss values during the first year of follow-up allowed analysis of the behavior of this rehabilitation in fullarch maxillary cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the effects of buccal contour augmentation for periodontally compromised teeth with horizontal bone loss. A total of 30 subjects were divided into Group A or Group B (n = 15 subjects per group). Group A received open-flap debridement (OFD) with buccal contour augmentation using deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), jointly referred to as contour augmentation for periodontal defects (CAPD; test group). Group B received only OFD (control group). Bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), gingival recession (GR), keratinized mucosa width (WKM), keratinized mucosa thickness (TKM), and labial cortical plate thickness were compared at baseline and 1 year. BOP, CAL, PD, and GR did not show significant differences. TKM increased by 1.76 mm for Group A but decreased by 1 mm for Group B. WKM increased from 2.86 ± 0.4 mm to 3.6 ± 0.71 mm (P < .001) and from 2.93 ± 0.32 mm to 3 ± 0.7 mm (P = 0.5) for Groups A and B, respectively, which showed statistical significance. Labial cortical plate thickness increased from 0.94 ± 0.3 mm to 1.95 ± 0.54 mm (P < .001) for Group A but decreased from 0.87 ± 0.45 mm to 0.68 ± 0.31 mm for Group B. Visual analog scale scores for pain perception showed no difference between the two groups. CAPD for periodontally compromised teeth improves WKM and TKM. Long-term analyses are needed to determine its benefits in daily clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone graft materials are often used in implant treatment to optimize functional and esthetic outcomes. The requirements for bone grafting materials are the ability to maintain space for bone regeneration to occur and the capability of being resorbed by osteoclasts and replaced with new bone tissue occurring in passive chemolysis and bone remodeling. Carbonate apatite (CO3Ap) granules (Cytrans Granules, GC) are a chemically synthetic bone graft material similar to autogenous bone minerals and more biocompatible than allografts and xenografts. The aim of this report is to evaluate the efficacy of CO3Ap granules in implant treatments when used alone or in combination with autogenous bone. The clinical findings and the radiographic and histologic assessments in three cases of immediate implant placement and lateral and vertical guided bone regeneration are reported. Despite the short-term follow-ups, histologic findings showed that CO3Ap granules were efficiently resorbed and replaced bone in clinical use. Furthermore, the clinical findings showed that CO3Ap granules maintained their morphology around the implant. This limited short-term case report suggests that this bone substitute is effective. However, further clinical studies and long-term reports of this new biomaterial are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the relationship between bone loss that occurs during the peri-implantitis process and variations in implant stability using resonance frequency analysis (RFA) measurement methods. Materials and Methods: Forty selftapping implants were placed in cow ribs, and study scenarios were established according to the affected implant side and bone loss depth (n = 10 implants per group): Case 1 = bone loss on one side (vestibular); Case 2 = bone loss on two opposite sides (buccal and lingual); Case 3 = bone loss on two adjacent sides (buccal and mesial); and Case 4 = foursided bone loss (circumferential). For each group of 10 implants, first a bone loss of 0 mm was evaluated, then 4-mm defects (simulating 1/3 of bone loss) were created and evaluated, and finally 8-mm defects (simulating 2/3 of bone loss) were created and evaluated. Osteotomy measurements were made with a periodontal probe. For each implant, RFA was measured by the same operator using the Beacon system (Osstell). Results: The initial implant stability quotient (ISQ) values of the 40 implants exceeded 70, reflecting an average of 73 in the buccolingual (VL) and 74.8 in the mesiodistal (MD) directions. ISQ measurements in the 10 implants in which bone dehiscence was performed on the vestibular aspect reflected a decrease in ISQ values as bone loss increased. When generating bone loss in two opposite sides (buccal and lingual), a greater decrease in ISQ values was observed when 2/3 of the implant were affected. The average VL ISQ measurement was less than 70 when at sites with 2/3 of bone loss. Conclusions: When bone loss occurs on only one side of the implant, the ISQ values decrease, but the implant maintains good stability. The same occurs when two opposite sides of the implant are affected, as the unaffected side has the least decrease in ISQ value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitor (tocilizumab) on bacterial infection-associated bone resorption around implants during osseointegration in rabbits. Materials and Methods: At total of 24 male, 9-monthold New Zealand white rabbits were included, and their two mandibular anterior teeth were extracted. Three months after extraction, 24 one-piece Dentium implants (Ø 2.5 mm, intraosseous length of 12 mm) were inserted in the anterior mandible, and the rabbits were divided into four groups (n = 6 per group). Different treatment methods were used in each group: blank control group (BC); only silk ligation (negative control [NC]); silk ligation and injection with minocycline hydrochloride ointment (positive control [PC]); and silk ligation and injection with tocilizumab at 8 mg/kg via the auricle vein (experimental [EP]). Eight weeks later, the animals were sacrificed, and samples were collected and then analyzed using microcomputed tomography (microCT) scanning, immunohistochemical analysis, and histologic analysis. Results: From the microCT measurement, the ratio of the bone volume to the total volume (BV/TV) in the EP group was 67.00% ± 2.72%, which was higher than that in the other three groups (58.85% ± 2.43% in the BC group, 55.72% ± 2.48% in the PC group, and 36.52% ± 3.02% in the NC group). From immunohistochemical analysis, the expression of IL-6 was found to be higher in the NC group than in the BC, PC, and EP groups, but there was no statistical difference between these three groups. Furthermore, the RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand) expression was the lowest in the EP group, followed by the BC group, the PC group, and the NC group, which had the highest expression; there was no difference between the NC and PC groups. Upon histologic analysis, significant new bone was found on the implant surfaces in the EP group, sparse and less new bone could be seen in the BC and PC groups, and the most serious bone resorption occurred in the NC group. Conclusions: Tocilizumab, an inhibitor of IL-6, has a certain effect in preventing bone loss around implants caused by bacterial infection during the osseointegration period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This prospective study evaluated the marginal bone level and periodontal parameters 6 years after placement of a convergent transmucosal neck implant. Materials and Methods: In total, 71 implants were placed in 60 patients. Of these, 52 implants were placed with a flapless technique and with the convergent neck exposed by 1 mm (early and delayed placement), while 19 implants were placed immediately after extraction (immediate placement). At least 3 months after insertion, customized abutments were applied and provisional resin crowns were cemented, while being careful to prevent any tissue compression. After 3 weeks, definitive metal-ceramic crowns were designed with the finish line at the soft tissue level and free from any compression. The implant survival rate at 6 years, marginal bone level changes (ΔMBL, mm), and Pink Esthetic Score (PES) were evaluated. Gingival phenotype was determined before the implant surgeries (thin/thick). A three-level hierarchical model was examined with a random intercept and random slope on follow-up time at the patient level and a random intercept at the implant level. Results: In all, 57 patients with 67 implants reached the 6-year point; 3 patients (5.0%) dropped out. The implant survival rate was 100%. ΔMBL from baseline to 24 months was 0.58 mm (95% CI: 0.48, 0.68), while ΔMBL from 24 to 72 months was 0.33 mm (95% CI: 0.19, 0.47). PES improved steadily from 6 to 48 months (+0.96; 95% CI: 0.71, 1.20), with overall stability at 72 months. No correlation between MBL and PES was observed. A significant association was found between thick gingival phenotype and less MBL variation. Greater implant diameter offered more MBL stability after 3 years but resulted in lower PES values. Conclusions: The use of convergent transmucosal neck implants placed with a flapless transmucosal approach with the crown margin positioned at the gingival level preserved marginal bone and guided gingival morphology for up to 72 months. The gingival phenotype was the parameter that most affected the soft and hard tissues. In the long term, implant placement timing was not related to MBL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The structural and compositional similarities between dentin and alveolar bone form the basis for utilizing dentin for bone regeneration. Various authors have recommended using treated mineralized, partially demineralized, or demineralized dentin grafts instead of xenografts because of their comparable clinical and radiographic results and lower costs. The current study therefore compared the effect of untreated mineralized dentin grafts (UMDGs) versus xenografts in vertical and horizontal augmentation around dental implants that were immediately placed in the mandibular anterior region. Materials and Methods: A total of 56 patients who required immediate dental implant placement in the mandibular anterior region were randomly allocated to group I (study), where ground dentin was washed with normal saline and placed around the dental implants, or group II (control), where a xenograft was used. The primary implant stability was measured at the time of implant placement. Secondary implant stability, plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI), probing depth (PD), and keratinized mucosa width (KMW) were assessed at baseline (time of definitive abutment and provisional crown placement) and then at 3, 6, and 12 months. Pain and the number of analgesics consumed were assessed daily during the first postoperative week. Marginal bone loss (MBL) and radiodensity were assessed radiographically. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of postoperative pain, the number of analgesic tablets consumed, peri-implant mucositis, or peri-implantitis. Both groups showed comparable results for the PI, BI, and PD. Moreover, there was no statistical difference between the groups with regard to primary implant stability and secondary implant stability at baseline and 12 months. Group I showed significantly lower secondary implant stability after loading at 3 and 6 months and significantly greater bone loss and lower bone density before exposure. KMW and MBL after exposure were significantly higher in group I at all time points. Conclusions: Although UMDGs showed similar clinical results to xenografts, including primary and secondary implant stability, they had higher resorption rates than xenografts. Therefore, treatment of the dentin graft is required. Thus, the authors do not recommend using UMDGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To answer the following focus question: In preclinical in vivo experimental models, do oral implants placed in overdimensioned (OD) sites present greater biomechanical properties and histomorphometric parameters of osseointegration compared to implants placed in standard or undersized implant sockets? Materials and Methods: Online databases were searched for controlled animal studies reporting on OD sites up to February 2023. The relative implant-final drill discrepancy (IDD) was used to categorize the control and test groups according to surgical drilling protocol: (1) control: undersized (IDD > 0.5 mm) or standard (IDD = 0.2 to 0.5 mm); and (2) test OD: stress-free oversized (IDD = 0.0 to -0.1 mm); test GAP: friction-free oversized (IDD = -0.1 mm). Random-effects meta-analyses were performed for the outcomes of insertion and removal torque values (ITV and RTV, respectively), bone-to-implant contact (%BIC), and bone density (%BD) for short- (0 to 2 weeks), intermediate- (3 to 4 weeks), and long-term (= 5 weeks) healing periods. Results: Of the 527 records identified, 13 studies met the eligibility criteria. Histologically, the OD and GAP groups prevented ischemic necrosis and extensive bone resorption at the bone-implant interface in both the marginal cortical layer and the trabeculae. Faster and increased rates of bone formation, characterized by primary osteons and highly vascularized tissue, took place in OD sites between 1 and 5 weeks of healing. Meta-analyses indicated statistically significant benefits in favor of (1) control vs OD for short-term healing in extraoral sites, with pooled estimates (weighted mean difference) of ITV = 25.35 Ncm, %BIC = 2.10%, and %BD = 26.19%; (2) control vs OD for long-term healing in intraoral sites, with %BD = 11.69%; (3) control vs GAP for intermediate-term healing in extraoral sites, with %BD = 3.03%; and (4) control vs GAP for long-term healing in extraoral sites, with RTV = 5.57 Ncm. Conclusions: Oversized surgical preparation of the implant site does not seem to provide any additional benefit compared to standard or undersized sites regarding quantitative parameters of osseointegration. However, it does minimize marginal bone resorption and yields better-quality bone healing, despite the comparable results among different experimental animal models in the late postoperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In lactating mothers, the high calcium (Ca2+) demand for milk production triggers significant bone loss1. Although oestrogen normally counteracts excessive bone resorption by promoting bone formation, this sex steroid drops precipitously during this postpartum period. Here we report that brain-derived cellular communication network factor 3 (CCN3) secreted from KISS1 neurons of the arcuate nucleus (ARCKISS1) fills this void and functions as a potent osteoanabolic factor to build bone in lactating females. We began by showing that our previously reported female-specific, dense bone phenotype2 originates from a humoral factor that promotes bone mass and acts on skeletal stem cells to increase their frequency and osteochondrogenic potential. This circulatory factor was then identified as CCN3, a brain-derived hormone from ARCKISS1 neurons that is able to stimulate mouse and human skeletal stem cell activity, increase bone remodelling and accelerate fracture repair in young and old mice of both sexes. The role of CCN3 in normal female physiology was revealed after detecting a burst of CCN3 expression in ARCKISS1 neurons coincident with lactation. After reducing CCN3 in ARCKISS1 neurons, lactating mothers lost bone and failed to sustain their progeny when challenged with a low-calcium diet. Our findings establish CCN3 as a potentially new therapeutic osteoanabolic hormone for both sexes and define a new maternal brain hormone for ensuring species survival in mammals.

Objective: This retrospective study analyzed radiographic bone levels of 10,871 dental implants in a cohort of 4,247 patients over a 22-year period. The objectives of the study were to assess and explore risk factors associated with the radiographic bone level of dental implants. Method and materials: A longitudinal observational cohort study based on data collected from 1995 to 2019 was conducted on implants placed by a single periodontist. Inclusion criteria included both partially and fully edentulous sites. Exclusion criteria were patients who were considered ASA 3 or greater. Information on medical and dental status prior to implant placement such as diabetes and smoking were included in the analysis. Implant factors such as the implant characteristics (length and diameter) and surgical site were recorded. The outcome assessed was the prevalence of bone loss around implants and any associative factors related to the bone loss. Results: Overall, dental implants lost an average of 0.05 ± 0.38 mm of bone 2 to 3 years after placement and 0.21 ± 0.64 mm 8 years after placement. The soft tissue condition was evaluated using the Implant Mucosal Index (IMI), and bone loss around dental implants was significantly higher when bleeding on probing was multi-point and moderate, multi-point and profuse, and when infection with suppuration was recorded. The mean difference in bone level between smokers and nonsmokers was 0.26 mm (P < .01) over a 4-year period. A mean difference of 0.10 mm (P = .04) in bone loss over 4 years was found between those with an autoimmune disease compared to those without. The diameter of the implant and immediate loading of the dental implant did not influence the radiographic bone levels over time. Conclusions: This large dataset of dental implants highlights predictive risk factors for bone loss around dental implants and the impact these risk factors have on the implant bone level. Consideration of these risk factors by both the dental team and the patient prior to dental implant placement will promote success of the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study evaluated the clinical outcomes of surgical crown reattachment in the treatment of complicated crown-root fractures in permanent teeth in 35 patients. Treatments were defined as follows: surgical crown reattachment combined with internal fixation with a fiber-reinforced core post, ostectomy, and reattachment of the original crown fragment. Patients were examined to record the periodontal pocket depth (PD), marginal bone loss, tooth migration, and coronal fragment looseness or loss. In most cases, the fracture lines on the palatal aspect were located below the alveolar crest. About 20% to 30% of teeth had periodontal pockets ≥ 3 mm present at least 1 year after surgery. Significant PD differences were observed between the traumatized teeth and adjacent untraumatized teeth at 6 months. The available evidence suggests that surgical crown reattachment is a feasible and effective technique for managing complicated crown-root fractures in permanent teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the available evidence and assess the effect of different implant coatings on healing outcomes. Materials and Methods: Using the PICOS strategy, a structured question was formed. A protocol was agreed upon and registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42022321926). The MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed, and ScienceDirect databases were searched using a structured strategy. Study selection was independently carried out in duplicate, first by title and abstract, then by full-text assessment. Quality and risk of bias were independently assessed in duplicate using AMSTAR 2 and ROBIS. Data extraction was independently undertaken in duplicate using a predefined extraction form. Results: The search yielded 11 systematic reviews for inclusion. The most commonly assessed coatings were based on calcium phosphate--including hydroxyapatite (HA), brushite, and bioabsorbable nano-HA--followed by bisphosphonate, then bioactive glass coatings. Included reviews most frequently assessed marginal bone loss (MBL), bone-to-implant contact (BIC), and survival/success rates. There was considerable heterogeneity and small sample sizes. The quality assessment suggested low confidence in the reviews and high risk of bias. Conclusions: The included reviews provide weak evidence that implant coatings improve osseointegration and reduce MBL following implant placement. There was weak evidence for progressive complications for calcium phosphate coatings. Further research and long-term multicenter controlled clinical trials with improved standardization and control of bias are required to better understand the effects of coating implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To retrospectively determine the cumulative survival rate (CSR) and marginal bone level change (ΔMBL) around novel hybrid design tissue-level (TL) dental implants that support multiple-screw-retained restorations. Materials and Methods: Implant CSRs were analyzed at the implant and patient level using Kaplan-Meier estimates. ΔMBL was measured by comparing the periapical loading and follow-up visit radiographs using an improved standardized digital methodology based on image gray levels. ΔMBL outcomes were subject to linear mixed regression to identify potential risk factors. Results: A total of 301 TL implants in 69 patients with an average age of 62.6 ± 11.7 years (range: 36 to 87 years) at the time of implant placement were considered for the analysis. All 301 implants were successfully restored and loaded. The 54-month CSRs at the implant and patient levels were 98.9% (95% CI: 96.7 to 99.6) and 95.3% (95% CI: 86.1 to 98.5), respectively. ΔMBL after a mean follow-up of 22 ± 10.7 months after loading was 0.00 ± 0.57 mm. None of the implant sites showed marginal bone loss exceeding 1.5 mm. Multivariate regression analysis revealed a significant association between ΔMBL and the loading protocol (P = .027) but not between ΔMBL and age or transgingival height. Conclusions: The high CSRs and stable peri-implant marginal bone levels support the use of recent TL implants, which have a hybrid design inherited from the bone-level implant-abutment connection, as a suitable treatment option for restoring partially or fully edentulous patients with a good mid-term prognosis. These results should be complemented by further prospective studies in a real-world multicenter private practice setup that represents the daily realities of implant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the soft tissue response to the placement of additively manufactured subperiosteal jaw implants (AMSJI) in the severely atrophic maxilla and to identify possible risk factors for soft tissue breakdown. Materials and Methods: An international multicenter study was conducted, and 15 men (mean age: 64.62 years; SD: ± 6.75) and 25 women (mean age: 65.24 years; SD: ± 6.77) with advanced maxillary jaw resorption (Cawood and Howell Class V or more) were included in this study. General patient data were collected, and all subjects were clinically examined. Inclusion criteria were patients who underwent bilateral AMSJI placement in the maxilla at least 1 year prior. Exclusion criteria were patients who did not have patient, surgeon, or dentist consent to participate in the study before their inclusion. Results: A total of 40 patients were enrolled, with a mean follow-up period of 917 days (SD: ± 306.89 days). Primary implant stability was achieved postoperatively in all cases, and all implants were loaded with a final prosthesis. At the time of the study, only 1 patient showed mobility (> 1 mm) of the bilateral AMSJI. Due to mucosal recession, exposure of the framework was seen in 26 patients (65%) and was mainly in the left (21.43% of 26) and right (18.57% of 26) midlateral region. A thin biotype and the presence of mucositis were found to be risk factors (P < .05). Although not significant, smokers had a risk of developing a recession that was nearly seven times (odds ratio: 6.88; P = .08) greater than that of nonsmokers. Conclusions: Twenty-six (65%) patients presented with a recession in one (or more) of the seven regions after oral rehabilitation with bilateral AMSJI placement. Several risk drivers were evaluated. The collapse of soft tissues around the AMSJI that led to caudal exposure of the arms was correlated with a thin biotype and the presence of mucositis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate peri-implant tissue health and bone resorption in patients with implant-supported fixed partial rehabilitations. In particular, possible correlations between plaque accumulation and bone loss, as well as other periimplant health parameters, were investigated. Materials and Methods: A total of 44 patients rehabilitated with fixed implant-supported partial rehabilitations were included. The following parameters were recorded: spontaneous bleeding (SB), suppuration, bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), and probing depth (PD). Periapical radiographs were taken to measure crestal bone loss (BL). A nonparametric test (Spearman rank coefficient; rs) was used to identify possible correlations between the clinical parameters recorded. Results: A total of 121 implants were analyzed. Global PI and BOP were 49.58% and 20.25%, respectively. There were no cases of suppuration, and only 2 implants showed spontaneous bleeding. Mean BL was 1.53 mm (SD: 0.98). No implants showed peri-implantitis. There was a weak, statistically significant correlation between PI and BL (rs = 0.27, P [2-tailed] = .99) and between PI and the other peri-implant parameters (BOP: rs = 0.14, P = .14; PD: rs = 0.04, P = .65; SB: rs = --0.08, P = .34). A very weak correlation was also found between BL and BOP (rs = 0.1, P = .2) and between BL and PD (rs = 0.02, P = .7). Correlation was found between BL and age (rs = 0.13, P = .81) and between the other peri-implant parameters and age using dichotomization (> or < 65 years; PI: rs = --0.14, P = .11; PD: rs = --0.21, P = .01; BOP: rs = --0.21, P = .01; SB: rs = 0.05, P = .53). No statistically significant correlations were found between the clinical parameters evaluated and the sex or the dental arch treated (maxilla vs mandible). In contrast, the correlation between periodontal parameters and years elapsed since surgery (follow-up) was significant. Conclusions: The present research suggests that in implant-supported fixed partial rehabilitations, dental implants with greater plaque accumulation are more likely to present augmented probing depth, peri-implant inflammation, and bone loss, although the correlation is statistically very weak. Patient age and time of follow-up also significantly affected peri-implant health parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Ideal implant placement in atrophied posterior mandibular regions is challenging due to surgical difficulties and anatomical limitations. This study aimed to evaluate the use of allogeneic bone rings for vertical augmentation of atrophied posterior mandibular regions with simultaneous implants compared to autogenous bone rings, while avoiding donor site morbidity. Method and materials: A total of 24 vertically atrophied posterior mandibular segments (in 14 patients) were equally randomized into a study group in which mineralized freeze-dried allogeneic bone rings were used, and a control group in which autogenous bone rings with prepared implant osteotomies were harvested from the chin and used. All augmentation sites were prepared before inserting the bone rings. Implants were simultaneously inserted, fixing the bone rings into the native bone. All patients were clinically assessed after 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month. Crestal bone level was radiographically assessed after lweek, 6 months, and 3 months of prosthetic loading. Results: None of the 24 bone rings showed signs of implant or graft failure. There was no significant difference in the crestal bone level between the groups. Conclusion: Allogeneic bone rings can be a viable alternative to autogenous bone rings in augmenting the posterior aspect of the mandible, mitigating the concerns associated with donor site complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fractal analysis is a numerical method that indicates the structural patterns and complexity of the trabecular bone on radiographs. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the trabecular bone structure in systemically healthy patients and diabetes mellitus patients with periodontitis using fractal analysis. Method and materials: The study included 125 mandibular first molars of nonsmoker patients. The subjects were divided into five subgroups: diabetes mellitus patients with mild-moderate periodontitis, diabetes mellitus patients with advanced periodontitis, systemically healthy individuals with mild-moderate periodontitis, systemically healthy individuals with advanced periodontitis, and systemically healthy individuals with gingivitis (control group). Clinical periodontal parameters (pocket depth, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment loss, and bone loss) were recorded. Two specific sites located in the mesial-distal regions (n = 250) of the mandibular first molars were identified using periapical radiographs captured with a parallel technique. Fractal analysis values were calculated using the box-counting method. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson correlation analysis were used forstatistical evaluation. Results: The highest fractal analysis values were observed in systemically healthy with gingivitis patients (mesial fractal analysis: 1.86 ± 0.01; distal fractal analysis: 1.85 ±0.01). Patients with periodontitis (mesial fractal analysis: 1.78 ±0.02; distal fractal analysis: 1.79 ± 0.01) exhibited lower fractal analysis values compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in mesial and distal fractal analysis values between all periodontitis groups. No correlation was found between age, sex, clinical attachment loss, bone loss, and fractal analysis (P>.05). Conclusions: Although fractal analysis values were lower in the periodontitis groups compared to the control group, fractal analysis did not demonstrate any periodontitis-associated changes of bone tra-beculationin diabetes at any stage of periodontitis. Furthermore, there was no significant association between fractal analysis values and age, sex, clinical attachment, and bone loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Periodontitis is characterized by bone resorption. Vertical bone loss results in an intraosseous defect. Multiple surgical approaches for treating intrabony defects have shown different grades of effectiveness. Recently, the entire papilla preservation technique has been proposed, improving clinical parameters, such as pocket depth and clinical attachment level. This series of cases aimed to describe the use of the entire papilla preservation surgical technique without using biomaterials to regenerate periodontal intrabony defects. The influence on the clinical periodontal parameters and radiographic parameters was measured through CBCT, the latter not described until now, and analyzed the possible postoperative complications. Method and materials: A total of six intrabony periodontal defects associated with at least one periodontal pocket with probing depths equal to or greater than 6 mm were treated with the entire papilla preservation technique. The clinical and radiographic parameters were evaluated at the beginning and 6 months after surgery. Results: The mean probing pocket depth reduction was 4.00 ± 0.63 mm, the mean clinical attachment level gain was 3.67 ± 1.03 mm, and the mean radiographic intrabony filling was 2.41 ± 2.03 mm. Early healing was uneventful; the mean visual analog scale at 7 days was 0. Conclusions: This minimally invasive technique results in an improvement in clinical and radiographic parameters, the latter showing a filling of the bone defect observed during the 6-month evaluation after surgical treatment. These results confirm the importance of clot and flap stability in regenerating intraosseous defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of the study was to determine how the maxillary non-impacted third molars impact the distal region of alveolar bone of adjacent second molars. Method and materials: The periodontal condition of maxillary second molars for which the neighboring third molars were missing (NM3- group) and those with intact non-impacted third molars (NM3+ group) was analyzed in a retrospective study. Using CBCT, the patients were categorized based on the presence or absence of periodontitis, and the alveolar bone resorption parameters in the distal area of the second molars were measured. Results: A total of 135 patients with 200 maxillary second molars were enrolled in this retrospective study. Compared to the NM3- group, the second molars of the NM3+ group exhibited greater odds of increasing alveolar bone resorption in the distal region (health, OR = 3.60; periodontitis, OR = 7.68), regardless of the presence or absence of periodontitis. In healthy patients, factors such as female sex (OR = 1.48) and age above 25 years old (OR = 2.22) were linked to an elevated risk of alveolar bone resorption in the distal region of the second molars. In patients with periodontitis, male sex (OR = 3.63) and age above 45 years old (OR = 3.97) served as risk factors. Conclusions: Advanced age, sex, and the presence of non-impacted third molars are risk factors associated with alveolar bone resorption in individuals with adjacent second molars. In addition, the detrimental effects of non-impacted third molars in the population with periodontitis may be exacerbated. From a periodontal perspective, this serves as supportive evidence for the proactive removal of non-impacted third molars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The role of antibiotics as an adjunct to nonsurgical peri-implantitis treatment approaches has not reached a consensus. This meta-analysis aimed to review the adjunctive effect of systemic use of metronidazole and amoxicillin in patients with peri-implantitis. Method and materials: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials published from inception to January 2023. Results: A total of five clinical trials with a total of 211 patients were included in the analyses. No significant difference was found in the reduction of probing pocket depth at 3 and 6 months of follow-up (3 months: weighted mean difference [WMD] = -0.336, 95% CI -0.966 to 0.233, P = .231; 6 months: WMD = -0.533, 95% CI -1.654 to 0.587, P = .351). A statistically significant difference was found at 12 months of follow-up (WMD = -1.327, 95% CI -1.803 to -0.852, P < .001) between the treatment and control groups. The combined results indicated that the differences in reduction of bleeding on probing, Plaque Index score, and bone level at 6 months of follow-up were significant (P < .05). Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the adjunctive use of systemic metronidazole and amoxicillin did not significantly improve probing pocket depth compared to nonsurgical treatment alone, and should not be routinely recommended. However, the significant reductions in bleeding on probing, Plaque Index, and bone level at 6 months may indicate a potential effect of treating peri-implantitis with adjunctive systemic metronidazole and amoxicillin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Inflammatory disorders including periodontitis have been investigated for their impact on systemic inflammation and bone health. The present study was conducted with an aim to evaluate impact of control of periodontal inflammation through subgingival instrumentation on serum interleukin 6 and serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) in premenopausal females with stage II and III periodontitis. Method and materials: In this single-arm prospective study, periodontal parameters, serum interleukin 6, serum CTX, and hematologic parameters (total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count, platelet count, mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width) were assessed at baseline. Subgingival instrumentation was done, and oral hygiene instructions were given. At week 4, professional plaque control was performed, and oral hygiene instructions were reinforced. Serum and hematologic parameters were reassessed at 8 weeks after subgingival instrumentation, in individuals meeting the clinical endpoints (ie, bleeding on probing < 10%). Results: There was significant reduction in serum interleukin 6 of 0.168 ± 0.164 pg/mL (P = .000), and serum CTX of 17.459 ± 4.363 pg/mL (P = .000) at 8 weeks after subgingival instrumentation. There was significant decrease in eosinophil count (P = .018) and mean platelet volume (P = .016) at 8 weeks after subgingival instrumentation; however, no significant change was found in other hematologic parameters. Conclusion: Following subgingival instrumentation, biomarkers of both systemic inflammation (interleukin 6) and bone turnover (CTX) were observed to reduce significantly. This finding hints towards a positive impact of periodontal intervention on bone health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical treatment of infrabony defects may result in gingival recession of the neighboring teeth. The aim of this clinical report is to describe a surgical technique to promote gingival margin stability in the treatment of infrabony defects at sites with a thin or medium gingival phenotype. A coronally advanced entire papilla preservation (CA-EPP) flap with a connective tissue graft (CTG) was executed in two different clinical cases. This technique substantially improved interproximal clinical attachment level and pocket closure, with no gingival recession. A CA-EPP flap using a CTG may promote gingival margin stability and can be recommended in regenerative periodontal procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Patients with systemic scleroderma (SSc) often suffer from premature tooth loss. The aim of this study was to radiologically investigate bone loss at dental implants in patients with SSc and compare it with data from the literature on healthy patients. Materials and Methods: Mesial and distal bone level changes at implants were independently determined on panoramic and intraoral radiographs. They were double-checked after determination of evaluability by three different raters. Cohen's kappa was used to test for interrater reliability. Mean bone loss was estimated using linear regression analysis considering the patient as a random-effect implant and performed separately in predefined implant regions for different time points and for the mesial and distal sides of the implants. Results: Mesial and distal bone level changes were analyzed in 61 implants using periapical and panoramic radiographs. In total, 114 radiographs from 18 patients were evaluable in both the mesial and distal regions. After a maximum observation period of 60 months, the mean peri-implant bone loss was 1.68 mm (range: 0.83 to 2.54 mm) at the distal aspect and 1.65 mm (range: 0.81 to 2.48 mm) at the mesial aspect in the right posterior mandible (region 44 to 47 [FDI numbering system]), whereas in the left posterior maxilla (regions 24 to 27), the mean peri-implant bone loss was 0.61 mm (range: 0.32 to 0.91 mm) at the distal aspect and 0.59 mm (range: 0.16 to 1.03 mm) at the mesial aspect. The mean bone loss 60 months after surgery was 1.05 mm (range: 0.85 to 1.25 mm). Conclusions: Marginal bone loss at implants in patients with SSc is comparable to data from the literature collected in healthy subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the characteristics of dental implant transmucosal surfaces that influence soft tissue attachment and marginal bone loss (MBL). Materials and Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were searched based on predefined PICO eligibility criteria. Data from animal studies that compared junctional epithelium and connective tissue attachment and MBL from 4 days to 72 weeks were analyzed. The risk of bias was performed with the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation tool. A rank analysis evaluation of data was performed, and the most frequently appearing materials/surfaces for each tissue compartment were identified. Results: The search identified 3,549 studies, 28 of which were eligible for analysis, with an average risk of bias of 28% ± 10%. Machined, polished, etched, sandblasted, or coated titanium and zirconia materials/surfaces were most frequently examined. Several studies investigated lithium disilicate, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) or polyether ketone ketone (PEKK), aluminum oxide, and gold. Based on ranking and frequency of use at different time points, titanium grade IV (Ti-4) microthreads with a polished neck area most frequently supported natural tooth-like junctional epithelial attachment (= 1.5 mm), while machined Ti-4 and machined titanium grade V (Ti-5) most frequently supported connective tissue attachment (= 1.25 mm) and led to the least MBL (= 0.75 mm). Conclusions: Analyzed data suggest that Ti-4 microthreads with a polished neck area and machined Ti-4 and Ti-5 were the materials/surfaces of choice for the transmucosal part of implants. However, the extensive heterogeneity in reported studies precludes solid identification of the best materials/surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To review experimental peri-implantitis studies using rat models and summarize different peri-implantitis induction techniques and evaluate their effectiveness. Materials and Methods: Electronic searches were conducted by two independent examiners to address the following issues. Meta-analyses explored the marginal bone loss (MBL) of four types of peri-implantitis induction methods in rats. The detailed induction tactics--such as the implant design, implant size, surgical process, time cost, induction methods, and endpoint measurements--were summarized. Results: Of the 18 included studies, 38.9% of the studies placed implants at the maxillary first molar, and 44.4% placed them at the alveolar ridge region anterior to the maxillary first molar. As for the induction method, the numbers of published studies on ligature methods, bacterial inoculation, and bacterial lipopolysaccharide inoculation were equally high among all selected studies. The total implant survival rate at the end was 160 out of 213 implants (75.11%). Eight studies with high pooled heterogeneity (I2 = 98, P < .01) in the meta-analysis reported an overall MBL (µ-CT) of 0.47 mm (95% CI = 0.14 to 0.81). A subgroup analysis estimated an MBL of 0.31 mm (95% CI = 0.12 to 0.50) for bacterial inoculation and 0.66 mm (95% CI = 0.07 to 1.26) for the ligature method. Histopathologic analysis revealed that peri-implantitis in rats was similar to peri-implantitis lesions in humans. Conclusions: Implant placement at the maxillary first molar with bacterial inoculation and the silk ligature method to build peri-implantitis rat models is reliable to use for research on peri-implantitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of implants placed in alveolar sockets treated by means of alveolar ridge preservation after 10 years of follow-up. Method and materials: Eleven patients treated with 11 implants placed after alveolar ridge preservation using bovine-derived xenograft particles and collagen membrane were selected. Full-mouth plaque score, full-mouth bleeding score, probing depth at four sites per implant, and radiographic marginal bone level at mesial and distal aspects for each implant were recorded at baseline and after 10 years of follow-up. The primary outcome was the radiographic marginal bone loss. The marginal bone loss was considered as the difference between marginal bone level at baseline and after 10 years of observation time. Results: After 10 years of follow-up, full-mouth plaque score increased significantly (P < .05), while no statistically significant differences were found in the change in full-mouth bleeding score (P = .05). At the 10-year observation period, a significant increase in probing depth was observed at all sites (P < .05), except at the mesial aspects (P = .05). Radiographic marginal bone loss was 1.1 ± 0.1 mm and 1.0 ± 0.1 mm at mesial and distal sites, respectively. Conclusion: Whitin the limitations of the present study, implants placed in post-extraction sockets treated with alveolar ridge preservation yielded stable clinical and radiographic results after 10 years of follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The consecutive case series accesses the results and experiences of ridge augmentation using an umbrella screw tenting technique. Method and materials: In total, 279 patients were treated between 26 May 2015 and 16 June 2021, including horizontal and vertical ridge defects. Sex, age, smoking behavior, jaw, graft material, soft tissue thickness, extent of horizontal/vertical augmentation, resorption rate, and occurrence of early/late exposure were evaluated. Bone gain was determined by resorption at the screw head. Only cases without premature screw removal were evaluated metrically (n = 201). All other augmentations were evaluated according to whether implantation was possible with or without further augmentation (n = 27). A target performance index was calculated, which should enable evidence-based comparability of different augmentation methods in future. Results: In total, 54 wound dehiscences (39 early, 15 late exposures) occurred, which corresponds to 24.08% of the augmented sites; 42 umbrella screws were removed prematurely. In all cases an implantation was possible at the desired position afterwards. Cases with a vertical augmentation component showed a higher prevalence of exposure (early, P = .000; late, P = .024). The extent of the vertical augmentation was only relevant for early exposure (P = .048). Mean bone gain of 4.23 ± 1.69 mm horizontally and 4.11 ± 1.99 mm vertically could be achieved. Regression analysis showed that there was no limit in horizontal/vertical direction. Mean percentage target performance index was 75.90 ± 20.54 for vertical and 82.25 ± 16.67 for horizontal portions. Conclusion: The umbrella technique is an effective augmentation method, which can be applied to any defect morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study the therapeutic effect of hemagglutinin-2 and fimbrial (HA2-FimA) vaccine on experimental periodontitis in rats. Materials and Methods: The first batch of rats was divided into two groups and immunised with pure water or pVAX1-HA2- FimA at the age of 6, 7, and 9 weeks. After sacrificing the animals, total RNA was extracted from the spleens for RNA high-throughput sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis. The second batch of rats was divided into four groups (A, B, C, D), and an experimental periodontitis rat model was established by suturing silk thread around the maxillary second molars of rats in groups B, C, and D for 4 weeks. The rats were immunised with pure water, pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine, empty pVAX1 vector, and pure water at 10, 11, and 13 weeks of age, respectively. Secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) antibodies and cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) levels in saliva were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All rats were euthanised at 17 weeks of age, and alveolar bone loss was examined using micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT). Results: Through sequencing analysis, six key genes, including Camp, were identified. Compared with the other three groups, the rats in the periodontitis+pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine group showed higher levels of SIgA and CAMP (p < 0.05). MicroCT results showed significantly less alveolar bone loss in the periodontitis+pVAX1-HA2-FimA vaccine group compared to the periodontitis+pVAX1 group and periodontitis+pure water group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: HA2-FimA DNA vaccine can increase the levels of SIgA and CAMP in the saliva of experimental periodontitis model rats and reduce alveolar bone loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retrospective chart review was conducted of CBCT images captured between November 2019 and April 2021 on patients who underwent dental implant placement and had a periodontal charting. The buccal and lingual bone thickness around the implants was measured as an average of three measurements taken from the buccal and lingual aspects of implants. Implants with peri-implantitis were placed in Group 1, and implants with peri-implant mucositis or good peri-implant health were placed in Group 2. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare the differences between the bone thicknesses of the groups. In total, 93 CBCT radiographs were screened, and 15 CBCT images with both an implant and corresponding periodontal charting were analyzed. Of the 15 implants examined, 5 presented with peri-implantitis (33%), 1 with peri-implant mucositis, and 9 with good peri-implant health. Within the limitations of this study, buccal bone thickness averaging ≥ 1.10 mm or midlingual probing depths ≥ 3.4 mm correlates with a more favorable peri-implant response. Larger studies are needed to substantiate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate assessment of the disease extent and lesion size is needed for appropriate therapy decisions of endodontic-periodontic (endo-perio) lesions. CBCT imaging with less radiation and high spatial resolution can provide a comprehensive evaluation of endo-perio lesions. A total of 71 teeth with endo-perio lesions were assessed using CBCT. Periodontal bone defects were studied for bone loss pattern (horizontal/vertical) along with bone loss levels on mesial and distal sides in association with furcation involvement. The periapical lesions were studied for their prevalence and extent based on CBCT PAI Score. Horizontal and vertical bone loss were detected in 54 teeth (76.1%) and 17 teeth (23.95%), respectively. Mean crestal bone loss levels on mesial and distal aspects were 4.80 ± 3.21 mm and 5.74 ± 3.91 mm, respectively. The mean height, width, and depth of furcation defects were 3.19 ± 2.99 mm, 1.94 ± 0.98 mm, and 4.44 ± 1.92 mm, respectively. Periapical lesions were recorded in 55 teeth (77.5%). A CBCT PAI score of 5 was scored in 35 teeth with a mean lesion diameter of 11.3 ± 2.83 mm, while 16 teeth had healthy periapical tissues (scores of 0 and 1). CBCT is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help assess endo-perio lesions by providing morphometric measurements of periodontal bone defects and the extent of associated periapical lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to quantify the buccal bone thickness, area, and perimeter following guided bone regeneration (GBR) using stabilizing periosteal sutures. The loss in hard tissue volume may impair proper implant placement. GBR has been used to regenerate the lost alveolar ridge prior to or at the same time as dental implant placement. The most important factor for GBR success is graft stability. The periosteal mattress suture (PMS) stabilizing technique is an alternative to pins and screws to stabilize bone grafting material and has the advantage of not requiring the removal of the fixing devices. CBCT scan was acquired before and 6 months after surgery from six patients who underwent GBR with the PMS stabilizing technique. Images were analyzed for buccal bone thickness, area, and perimeter. The mean change in buccal bone thickness was 3.42 ± 1.31 mm and proved statistically significant (P = .005). The mean change in bone crest area also proved statistically significant (P = .001). No significant difference was found in bone perimeter (P = .12). The PMS technique delivered optimal results without clinical complications. This study shows the potential of this technique as an alternative to pins or screws for graft stabilization in the esthetic zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study retrospectively evaluated the influence of prosthetic features on marginal bone level changes around bone-level implants with an external hex connection. A total of 100 patients with 166 implants and cemented crowns were included. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Prosthetic features were radiographically evaluated, including emergence angle (EA), emergence profile (EP), crown-implant ratio (CIR), and abutment height. Marginal bone levels were measured on intraoral radiographs taken at baseline and after at least 1 year. The correlation between prosthetic features and marginal bone loss (MBL) was then investigated. The mean follow-up time was 43.94 months. Implant length varied between 5 and 13 mm. The mean height of the abutments used was 1.55 mm. EA measured an average 30.62 degrees (± 13.20) mesially and 29.45 degrees (± 13.07) distally. The CIR was 0.99 (± 0.26). The mean MBL was 0.19 mm on the mesial side and 0.20 mm on distal side of the implants. Significant positive associations emerged between MBL and implant length (P < .005) and with EA (P < .05). A convex profile of the crown was shown to be associated with a higher distal MBL (P = .025) compared to concave and str aight profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have reported the outcomes of short implants with a follow-up time > 10 years. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of short locking-taper implants supporting single crowns in the posterior region. Patients who received these supporting implants (≤ 8 mm) in the posterior region from 2008 to 2010 were included. The clinical and radiographic outcomes and patient satisfaction were recorded. A total of 18 patients with 34 implants were included. The cumulative survival rate was 91.4% and 83.3% at implant and patient levels, respectively. Tooth brushing habit and history of periodontitis were significantly associated with implant failure (P < .05). The median marginal bone loss (MBL) was 0.24 mm (IQR: 0.01 to 0.98 mm). Biologic and technical complications occurred in 14.7% and 17.8% of implants, respectively. The mean modified Sulcus Bleeding Index was 0.52 ± 0.63, and the mean peri-implant probing depth was 2.38 ± 0.79 mm. All patients were at least quite satisfied, with the majority of patients (88.9%) being fully satisfied with the treatment. Within the limitations of this study, the short locking-taper implants supporting single crowns in the posterior region achieved promising outcomes in the long-term follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Custom Alveolar Ridge Splitting (CARS) technique was recently reported as a less-invasive treatment option for augmentation of the maxillary anterior area in cases where alveolar width deficiency exists due to bone resorption and remodeling. This technique creates an intraosseous defect to improve success when horizontal ridge augmentation is attempted. The purpose of the present case report was to demonstrate implant placement in an atrophic posterior mandibular site using the CARS technique. This technique was used in the mandibular right second premolar area, followed by placement of a single implant. The restored implant showed stable soft and hard tissue outcomes at 6 months postloading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective clinical study compared two different professional maintenance therapy (MT) approaches (with and without periodic removal and decontamination of prosthetic components) on peri-implant inflammatory clinical and biochemical parameters after 5 years of implant function. A retrospective analysis based on patient records was used to assess inflammatory clinical and biochemical parameters around dental implants placed by the same clinician in a private practice. The Plaque Index (PI), peri-implant probing depth (PPD), mucosal recession (REC), bleeding on probing (BOP), and radiographic marginal bone level were determined at baseline and at each follow-up year. Moreover, at the last follow-up visit, the peri-implant intrasulcular levels of active metalloproteinasis 8 (aMMP-8) were also assessed. All participants were under MT with a 6-month recall interval. A total of 92 patients with 132 implants were selected. At the end of the study period, 12 patients with 12 implants were classified as dropouts. The remaining 80 patients and 120 implants were classified into two groups: Group 1 (42 patients, 62 implants) received MT with periodic removal and decontamination of prosthetic components; Group 2 (38 patients, 58 implants) received MT without periodic removal and decontamination of prosthetic components. No statistical differences were found between the groups regarding PI, PPD, and REC. Group 1 presented a statistically significant higher number of sites with BOP (12.4% vs 6.2%). Marginal bone loss was statistically higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (0.23 ± 0.6 mm vs 0.78 ± 0.3 mm). Intrasulcular levels of aMMP-8 were statistically higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. The supplemental application of periodic removal and decontamination of prosthetic components during MT had a significantly positive effect on the inflammatory status of periimplant tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]