Customized Abutment Height and Mucosal Thickness Influence Peri-Implant Bone Stability: Study
Researchers have found that the height of customized abutments and the thickness of vertical mucosa significantly impact peri-implant crestal bone loss over a 12-month period following restoration placement on subcrestal implants. A recent study was published in the journal Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research by Serafin Maza-Solano and colleagues. This study underscores the importance of critical factors affecting bone maintenance around dental implants, particularly when using abutments with a platform smaller than the implant itself.
In implant dentistry, maintaining stable bone levels around implants is crucial for long-term success. Customized abutments are tailored to fit individual patient anatomy, aiming to optimize both functional and aesthetic outcomes. Understanding how abutment height and mucosal thickness influence bone stability can guide clinicians in improving treatment strategies and patient outcomes.
Ninety-nine implants were placed in posterior maxillary and mandibular regions. Customized abutments were digitally designed using Atlantis weborder software, adjusting heights based on vertical mucosal thickness. Clinical and radiographic monitoring began during implant surgery and continued for 12 months post-restoration using Carestream® CS8100 3D radiographic equipment.
The study findings were as follows:
• The study revealed that the most significant marginal bone loss occurred immediately after surgery up to restoration placement.
• Implants with abutment heights and vertical mucosal thickness less than 3 mm experienced more substantial initial bone loss.
• Bone loss stabilized over time, and in some cases, marginal bone recovery was observed by the 12-month follow-up.
• Average loss of 0.84 mm observed in cases with mucosal thickness < 3 mm.
• Bone levels stabilized with average marginal bone loss ranging from 0.05 mm to 0.21 mm between follow-up intervals.
• Abutments < 3 mm showed greater initial bone loss compared to > 3 mm abutments.
Researchers emphasize the critical role of abutment height and mucosal thickness in preserving bone around dental implants. The findings underscore the need for precise treatment planning to optimize peri-implant tissue response. In conclusion, this study highlights that customized abutment height and adequate mucosal thickness are pivotal in mitigating peri-implant bone loss.
Reference:
Maza-Solano, S., Baus-Domínguez, M., Romero-Ruíz, M.-M., Gutiérrez-Corrales, A., Torres-Lagares, D., & Serrera-Figallo, M.-Á. (2024). Prospective observational cohort study of the change of the marginal bone crest in relation to the prosthetic abutment height and the peri‐implant vertical mucosal thickness at implants positioned subcrestally. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research. https://doi.org/10.1111/cid.13347
