Crestal Bone Level Changes in Periodontally Healthy Patients Under Supportive Care: A 4-Year Retrospective Study

Crestal bone level (CBL) changes following implant placement may result from both physiological and pathological processes. Although early marginal bone remodeling is generally regarded as a physiological response, its progression must be carefully monitored. Identifying long-term risk factors is essential for preserving peri-implant bone stability. This study aims to assess changes in CBL and crestal bone remodeling (CBR) over a 4-year period in periodontally healthy patients undergoing regular supportive care.

This retrospective study included 97 patients with a total of 142 implants who received implant-supported restorations and consistently attended supportive maintenance therapy. Patients with a history of periodontitis were excluded. Radiographic evaluation was conducted at four time points: T0 (implant placement), T1 (prosthetic loading), T2 (1 year after loading), and T3 (4 years after loading). CBL and CBR were assessed using calibrated digital measurements. The effects of systemic, surgical, site-related, and prosthetic variables on CBL and CBR were analyzed using linear regression and Pearson correlation tests.

Smoking was the only consistent predictor of increased CBL loss across all intervals (p < 0.001). In the early phases (T1-T0, T2-T1), subcrestal placement was associated with significantly less bone loss (p ≤ 0.003). In the late phase (T3-T2), implant diameter became a significant predictor (p = 0.002). Prosthetic factors were not significant in the overall analysis. However, within the subcrestal subgroup, screw-retained prostheses, platform-switched connections, and anterior placement were associated with reduced CBR during specific intervals. Strong correlations were observed between CBL changes across all intervals, indicating progressive and cumulative bone dynamics.

The primary factor for initial bone stability is the depth of implant placement, whereas long-term results are mainly affected by implant geometry and prosthetic design. Smoking continues to be a significant, modifiable risk factor. These insights emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans and maintenance strategies to ensure long-term implant success.