ORIGINAL ARTICLES   

Minerva Stomatologica 2008 January-February;57(1-2):21-40

Copyright © 2007 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English, Italian

Evaluation of peri-implant tissues around single implant supporting single fixed crown: clinical considerations

Cogo E. ¹, Vecchiatini R. ¹, Calura G. ²

¹ Section of Dentistry University of Ferrara, Italy 2 Section of Dentistry Odontostomatological Department University of Ferrara, Italy

Aim. Assessment of peri-implant tissues around single implant-supported single fixed crown restorations can follow different protocols. The aim of this study was to asses peri-implant hard and soft tissues according to clinical periodontal parameters, modified for implant standard, and to radiographic parameters, and to test correlations between clinical parameters and historical bone loss.
Methods. Forty-two Brànemarks implants® (implant-supported single fixed crown restorations positioned between two natural teeth) inserted in 24 patients were assessed according to clinical and radiographic parameters, without removing the prosthetic crown.
Results. All implants were judged successful according to published criteria. Results of some clinical parameters differed between smokers and non-smokers. Radiographic measurements of peri-implant bone loss were in line with published data. Bone loss also correlated with the distance between adjacent teeth and implants.
Conclusion. Radiographic parameters were found to be the most appropriate for evaluation of successful implants. While clinical parameters proved useful for distinguishing immediately between swollen and healthy tissues, they did not indicate a negative prognosis for osseointegration nor for potential complications affecting peri-implant soft tissues.