Changes of subgingival microflora around single-crystal sapphire endosseous implants after experimental...

A study was performed to evaluate the change of subgingival microflora with plaque accumulation around the single-crystal sapphire implant. Four implants were inserted into mandibular and maxillary edentulous regions, and the super-structure was inserted 1 month after implant insertion in each of nine monkeys. Plaque control was maintained for 3 months after insertion to establish the baseline. Plaque was allowed to accumulate on one side by placement of ligatures around the implants and natural teeth with no plaque control. On the other side plaque control was continued for 9 months. Both the implants and natural teeth on the ligature side showed significant increases in proportions of motile rods and spirochetes. No significant difference of microflora was detected between the implants and natural teeth. These findings indicate that plaque control is necessary to maintain the normal microflora around the implant.