Factors affecting peri-implant bone loss: a post-five-year retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Periodontology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Peri-implant bone loss is a critical factor in assessing dental implant success.
• Preventing peri-implant bone loss is essential for long-term implant stability and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and assess factors influencing peri-implant bone loss in partially edentulous patients.
• To determine the relationship between various clinical and prosthetic factors and the extent of bone loss around dental implants.

Main Methods:

• An observational, longitudinal, retrospective study involving 148 patients and 585 implants with a minimum 5-year follow-up.
• Radiographic assessment of peri-implant bone loss compared with periodontal bone loss.
• Analysis of potential modifying factors including prosthesis design, hygiene, and implant characteristics.

Main Results:

• Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed significant associations between peri-implant bone loss and gender, implant system, splinting, and the distance between the implant platform and prosthesis component.
• The distance between the implant platform and the horizontal component of the prosthesis emerged as a highly significant factor.

Conclusions:

• The distance between the implant platform and the horizontal prosthesis component is the primary determinant of peri-implant bone loss.
• Optimal implant success is associated with maintaining this distance between 3.3 mm and 6 mm.
• Distances exceeding this range can lead to embrasure formation and increased bacterial plaque accumulation, negatively impacting peri-implant health.