A Comprehensive Analysis of Flapless and Conventional Flap Technique in Dental Implant Surgery - A Comparative Study

This study aims to advance evidence-based implant dentistry through a meticulous assessment of clinical and radiographic outcomes of two implant techniques, providing valuable insights for clinicians and researchers on their long-term success.

A 5-year, split-mouth, randomised, double-blind clinical trial with 40 volunteers compared Group A (flapless technique) and Group B (standard flap technique) across 40 sites each. Clinical and radiographic assessments were conducted, and data were analysed using SPSS Version 22.0 with a significance level of P < 0.001.

Participants aged 21-49 years showed that Group A (flapless) had higher baseline marginal bone loss but significantly less bone loss from 1 to 5 years compared to Group B (P < 0.001). Group A also had lower Visual Analogue Scale scores and analgesic intake from day 0 to day 5 (P < 0.001). Both groups had a 100% implant survival rate at 5 years, but Group A had higher patient satisfaction (P < 0.001). The diverse cohort of 40 participants included 50% from urban areas and 17.5% with high professional qualifications, all showing good oral hygiene.

Flapless implant surgery aligns with minimally invasive dentistry, reducing surgical trauma, improving aesthetics, shortening surgery time and enhancing patient satisfaction. It is suitable for various patient groups and represents a strategic shift in practices, especially in sites with favourable soft- and hard-tissue conditions.