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Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing customized abutments are increasingly used in everyday clinical practice. Nevertheless, solid scientific evidence is currently lacking regarding their potential advantages in terms of soft tissue stability. The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the soft tissue outcomes of prefabricated versus customized (CAD/CAM) abutments. The present review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020161875) and the protocol was developed according to the PRISMA statement. An electronic search was performed on three databases (PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central) up to May 2023. Data extraction was followed by qualitative and quantitative analysis of the included studies. Three randomized controlled clinical trials and three controlled clinical trials (number of patients = 230; number of dental implants = 230) with a follow-up of between 12 and 36 months were included. No significant differences were observed between prefabricated versus customized (CAD/CAM) abutments regarding midfacial mucosal recession, interproximal papillae and pink aesthetic score (PES) after 12 months. Conclusion: The potential benefits of CAD/CAM abutments on soft tissues should be better clarified in future investigations. The usage of customized CAD/CAM abutments in everyday clinical practice should be based on a careful case-by-case evaluation (CRD42020161875). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present retrospective study was to assess peri-implant soft tissue health for implants restored with different prosthetic emergence profile angles. Methods: Patients were treated with implants supporting fixed dentures and were followed for 3 years. Buccal emergence angle (EA) measured at 3 years of follow-up visits (t1) were calculated for two different groups: Group 1 (153 implants) for restorations with angle between implant axis and prosthetic emergence angle from ≥30°, and Group 2 (67 implants) for those with angle ≤30°, respectively. Image J software was used for the measurements. Moreover, peri-implant soft tissue parameters such as pocket probing depth (PPD), plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) were assessed, respectively. Results: A total of 57 patients were included in the analysis and a total of 220 implants were examined. Mean (±SD) EA in Groups 1 and 2 was 46.4 ± 12.2 and 24.5 ± 4.7 degrees, respectively. After 3 years of follow-up, a PPD difference of 0.062 mm (CI95% −0.041 mm; 0.164 mm) was calculated between the two groups and was not statistically significant (p = 0.238). Similar results were found for PI (OR = 0.78, CI95% 0.31; 1.98, p = 0.599). Furthermore, GI scores of 2 and 3 were found for nine implants (5.9%) in Group 1, and for five implants in Group 2 (7.5%). A non-significant difference (p = 0.76) was found. Conclusions: Peri-implant soft-tissue health does not seem to be influenced by EA itself, when a proper emergence profile is provided for implant-supported reconstructions in anterior areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present retrospective study was to assess marginal bone changes around implants restored with different prosthetic emergence profile angles. Patients were treated with implants supporting fixed dentures and were followed for 3 years. Marginal bone levels (MBL) measured at the prosthesis installation (t0) and at the 3-year follow-up visit (t1) were considered. The MBL change from t0 to t1 was investigated. Two groups were considered: Group 1 for restorations with an angle between implant axis and prosthetic emergence profile >30°, and Group 2 for those with an angle ≤30°, respectively. Moreover, peri-implant soft tissue parameters, such as the modified bleeding index (MBI) and plaque index (PI) were assessed. Seventy-four patients were included in the analysis and a total of 312 implants were examined. The mean EA in groups 1 and 2 was 45 ± 4 and 22 ± 7 degrees, respectively. The mean marginal bone level change (MBL change) of 0.06 ± 0.09 mm and 0.06 ± 0.10 mm were, respectively, in groups 1 and 2. The difference in the MBL change between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.969). The MBL change does not seem to be influenced by the emergence angle for implants with a stable internal conical connection and platform-switching of the abutment diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of this study was to verify the reliability of a system for the fixed retention of complete maxillary prostheses supported by four implants with a follow-up of 2 years. Material and methods Patients were treated between September 2009 and December 2010 with four Straumann Bone Level SLActive implants supporting a complete prosthesis ( CPs). The two distal implants were positioned mesially to the maxillary sinus and with a mesio-distal inclination ≤ 30° in order to reduce the distal prosthesis cantilever. An immediate loading surgical protocol was used. The CPs were planned to be fixed to multibase abutments to test their retention for a fixed rehabilitation. Clinical and radiographic parameters as probing pocket depth ( PPD), bleeding score ( mBI), plaque index ( PI), and marginal bone loss ( MBL) were assessed at a 1- and 2-year follow-up visits. Moreover, any biological and prosthodontic maintenance events were recorded. Clinical and radiographic parameters changes were analyzed. Results Twenty-one patients treated with a total of 84 implants completed the 2-year examination period. Four patients were lost to follow up. No technical complication was recorded. Also, no implant, reconstruction, or abutment failures were observed. Therefore, an implant and prosthetic survival rate of 100% were achieved after 2 years. The mean periodontal parameter scores after 2 years of function were 2.6 mm for PPD ( SD 0.8 mm), 0.3 for mBI ( SD 0.5 mm), and 1.2 for PI ( SD 0.4 mm) indexes, respectively. In addition, the mean MBL score measured at the 2-year follow-up visit was −0.34 mm ( SD of −0.45 mm). Furthermore, no peri-implant soft tissue inflammation or peri-implant infection was observed. Conclusions It has been shown that immediate loading of four implants positioned anteriorly to the maxillary sinus could be a reliable treatment procedure to support fixed complete restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to verify if the three-dimensional implant position in fresh alveolar socket may influence the maintenance of stable gingival margins around single premolar restorations with immediate implant placement. Methods After 16 weeks of healing, implants were loaded with single crowns. Documentation consisted in peri-apical radiographs taken: before treatment; at the time of implant placement; at the time of prosthetic rehabilitation and 12 months after the start of prosthetic function. Parameters assessed were: the presence/absence of inter-proximal papilla; the inter-implant-tooth distance (ITD); the distance from the base of the crown contact-point to the inter-dental bone crest (CPB); and the buccal-gingival tissue modifications. ITD, CPB values and the modification of buccal-gingival tissue were determined using an image processing software. Results Twenty-one healthy patients with thick gingival biotype, with a total of 21 maxillary premolars scheduled for extractions were enrolled. Following extraction, implants were immediately positioned. A 100% of implant survival rate was observed after 12 months of function. The presence of the mesial papilla was significantly correlated with the mean mesial CPB value (P = 0.0519 by means of two-tailed Mann-Whitney U-test). No significant correlation was found between the mesial papilla presence and the mean mesial ITD score (P = 0.7722 by means of two-tailed Mann-Whitney U-test). Furthermore, the presence of the distal papilla was not significantly correlated with the mean distal ITD and CPB values: scores of 0.7195 and 0.8225 were calculated respectively. Conclusion In the premolar area, the relationship between the presence of a complete inter-proximal papilla and ITD parameter was not significant (P > 0.05). The relationship between the presence of a complete inter-proximal papilla and CPB parameter still remain unclear. Nevertheless, a more large sample size is required to confirm this trend. Moreover, it was observed that the buccal-gingival tissue withdrew in the range 0-1 mm after 1 year of prosthetic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to evaluate (a) the clinical outcome of revascularized fibula flaps used for the reconstruction of extremely atrophic jaws and (b) the survival rates of dental implants placed in the reconstructed areas. Between 1999 and 2004, 12 patients presenting with extreme atrophy of the edentulous jaws were reconstructed with fibula free flaps. Five to 12 months after the reconstructive procedure, 75 titanium dental implants were placed in the reconstructed areas, while prosthetic rehabilitation was started 4-6 months afterward. The mean follow-up of patients after the start of prosthetic loading was 77 months (range: 48-116). An uneventful healing of the bone transplants occurred in all patients. One out of the 75 dental implants placed was not loaded due to prosthetic reasons. No dental implants failed to integrate before prosthetic loading, while three were removed during the follow-up period. Despite the high survival rate of dental implants (95.8%), a relevant number of them presented relevant peri-implant bone-level loss, ranging from 1 to 7 mm for maxillary dental implants and from 1 to 4.5 mm for mandibular dental implants. Although no failures of the bone transplants occurred and a high long-term survival rate of dental implants were observed, this study showed that fibula free flaps do not guarantee dimensional stability of peri-implant bone, despite the immediate blood supply delivered by the vascular pedicle. The peri-implant bone resorption was higher when compared with the one related to dental implants placed in native bone. Chiapasco M, Romeo E, Coggiola A, Brusati R. Long-term outcome of dental implants placed in revascularized fibula free flaps used for the reconstruction of maxillo-mandibular defects due to extreme atrophy. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. , 2011; 83-91. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0501.2010.01999.x [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reconstructive procedures present a higher rate of biological costs due to the necessity of bone harvest and grafts, use of semipermeable barriers etc. On the hand, implant supported cantilever prostheses could allow a simpler rehabilitation procedure. Aims: The aim of the present study was to assess the clinical outcome of patients treated with implant-supported fixed partial dentures (FPD) with cantilever after a mean follow-up time of 8 years. Material and methods: The study included 45 consecutive partially edentulous patients treated between January 1994 and August 2006 with 59 partial cantilever fixed prostheses supported by 116 ITI® implants. The primary outcome variable considered was the presence of complications at the subject and bridge level; the secondary outcome variable was marginal bone loss (MBL). The frequency of complications was analyzed according to cantilever location and opposite dentition and tested by Fisher's exact test. A multilevel regression model was constructed to analyze the factors influencing MBL with three levels: subject as the highest, and then implant and site. During the follow-up period, 11 implants showed a bone loss exceeding the limit for success, out of which two implants showed an infection of the peri-implant tissue. Results: After an average observation of 8.2 years of cantilever prostheses loading, the implant success and survival rates were 90.5% and 100%, respectively. Besides, the prosthetic success and survival rate were 57.7% and 100%, respectively. Discussion: None of the predictors included in the multilevel model presented a significant impact on the bone loss between baseline and the follow-up examination. Conclusions: The authors concluded that the prognosis of implant-supported FPDs and marginal bone loss at implants were not influenced by the position or the length of the cantilever, the location of the bridge and type of opposite dentition. Implant-supported fixed cantilever prosthesis can be considered a suitable treatment choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the clinical conditions, patient's satisfaction and functional outcomes in oral neoplasia patients with hemimandibulectomy, bone reconstruction and implant-supported prosthesis. Material and methods: Twelve patients after mandibular resection (with and without condyle), reconstruction and successful fixed implant-supported prosthesis rehabilitation were examined. Patients underwent clinical evaluation and filled in a questionnaire about their satisfaction toward oral functions. Surface electromyography (EMG) of the masticatory muscles was performed during a 15-s unilateral gum chewing test. EMG potentials were standardized as percentage of a maximum clench on cotton rolls and compared with reference data obtained from 20 healthy subjects. Results: Excellent clinical and radiological parameters were found. Patients stated a decreased post-rehabilitation satisfaction toward mastication and phonetics, but an increased attention to oral care. Only patients with condylar resection reported augmented esthetic scores. In both the resected and the remaining sides, chewing frequency was higher in the patients than in the reference group (Wilcoxon's rank-sum test, P<0.001). Pooled muscle activities (sum of the integrated areas of the EMG potentials over time) were larger in patients than in control subjects, particularly in the non-operated side ( P=0.001). The percentage contribution of working-side muscular activity in the operated side was similar to reference values, but significantly inferior in the opposite side ( P<0.001). The patterns of muscle contraction during unilateral chewing were more variable in the reconstructed patients than in control subjects; the difference was significant only in the non-operated side ( P<0.01). Conclusion: Post-rehabilitation median scores of the questionnaire indicated a positive judgment of the treatment. EMG analysis showed that functional recovery in hemimandibulectomy patients was satisfactory, although some alterations were observed in the non-operated side of mastication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This clinical study on therapy of peri-implantitis aimed to compare the marginal bone loss of implants treated with different surgical approaches: implantoplasty and peri-implant resective surgery only. Material and methods: Over a period of 6 years, 10 patients (20 implants) were treated with implantoplasty (test group) and 9 had resective surgery (control group). A computerized analysis of radiographs was performed to calculate marginal bone loss (MBL) values mesial and distal to the implants. The measurement system was set by means of known implant sizes. Data on MBL were collected at the time of peri-implantitis diagnosis, 1, 2 and 3 years after surgery. Results: There was no difference between the mean MBL values three years after implantoplasty in the test group: 0 and 0.01 mm of MBL mesial and distal to the implant were found ( P>0.05). Conversely, the mean MBL values recorded in the control group were statistically different: 1.44 and 1.54 mm of MBL mesial and distal to the implant were found ( P<0.05) 3 years after resective surgery. Moreover, the variation of peri-implant marginal bone after peri-implantitis surgical treatment was significantly lower in the test group than in the control group ( P<0.05). Conclusions: The results of this radiographic research suggested that implantoplasty was an effective treatment of peri-implant infections and peri-implantitis progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implants with a small diameter may be used where bone width is reduced or in single-tooth gaps with limited mesiodistal space, such as for the replacement of lateral maxillary or mandibular incisors. The purpose of the present longitudinal study was to compare the prognosis of narrow implants (3.3-mm-diameter) to standard (4.1-mm-diameter) implants. Over a 7-year period, 122 narrow implants were inserted in 68 patients to support 45 partial fixed prostheses (PFD) and 23 single-tooth prostheses (ST). Furthermore, 120 patients received 208 standard implants and were restored with 70 PFD and 50 ST, respectively. Clinical and radiographic assessment data were provided. Six (1.8%) out of 330 implants failed. Cumulative survival and success rates were calculated with life-table analyses processed by collecting clinical and radiographic data. For narrow implants, the cumulative survival rate was 98.1% in the maxilla and 96.9% in the mandible. The cumulative success rate was 96.1% in the maxilla and 92% in the mandible. Conversely, standard-diameter implants showed a cumulative survival rate of 96.8% in the maxilla and 97.9% in the mandible. The cumulative success rate was 97.6% in the maxilla and 93.8% in the mandible. Cumulative survival and success rates of small-diameter implants and standard-diameter implants were not statistically different ( P>0.05). Type 4 bone was a determining failure factor, while marginal bone loss was not influenced by the different implant diameters. The results suggest that small-diameter implants can be successfully used in the treatment of partially edentulous patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to compare the clinical outcome of two different surgical approaches for the treatment of peri-implantitis. Seventeen patients with ITI® implants were included consecutively over a period of 5 years. The patients were randomized with a lottery assignment. Ten patients were treated with resective surgery and modification of surface topography (test group). The remaining seven patients were treated with resective surgery only (control group). Clinical parameters (suppuration, modified plaque index– mPI, modified bleeding index– mBI, probing pocket depth– PPD, pseudopocket– DIM, mucosal recession– REC, probing attachment level– PAL) were recorded at baseline, as well as 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after treatment. The cumulative survival rate for the implants of the test group was 100% after 3 years. After 24 months, two hollow-screw implants of control group were removed because of mobility. Consequently, the cumulative survival rate was 87.5%. The recession index in the control group was significantly lower than in the test group at 24 months (Student'st-value of−2.14). On the contrary, control group showed higher PPD, PAL and mBI indexes than test group (Student'st-values of+5.5,+2.4 and+9.61, respectively). The PPD and mBI indexes for the implants of the control group were significantly higher at baseline than 24 months later (Student'st-values of+3.18 and+3.33, respectively). Recession and PAL indexes resulted in values significantly lower than baseline (Student'st-values of−4.62 and−2.77, respectively). For the implants of the test group PPD and mBI indexes were significantly higher at baseline than 36 months after (Student'st-values of+11.63 and+16.02, respectively). Recession index resulted in values significantly lower at baseline (Student'st-value of−5.05). No statistically significant differences were found between PAL index measurement at baseline and 36 months later (Student'st-value of+0.89). In conclusion, resective therapy associated with implantoplasty seems to influence positively the survival of oral implants affected by inflammatory processes.To cite this article:Romeo E, Ghisolfi M, Murgolo N, Chiapasco M, Lops D, Giorgio V. Therapy of peri-implantitis with resective surgery. A 3-year clinical trial on rough screw-shaped oral implants. Part I: clinical outcome.Clin. Oral Impl. Res. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this prospective study was to compare vertical guided bone regeneration (GBR) and vertical distraction osteogenesis (DO) for their ability in correcting vertically deficient alveolar ridges and their ability in maintaining over time the vertical bone gain obtained before and after implant placement. Eleven patients (group 1) were treated by means of vertical GBR with autogenous bone and e-PTFE membranes, while 10 patients (group 2) were treated by means of DO. In group 1, six patients received implants at the time of GBR (subgroup 1A), while five patients had implants placed at the time of membrane removal (subgroup 1B). In group 2, implants were placed at the time of distraction device removal. A total of 25 implants were placed in group 1 and 34 implants were placed in group 2 patients. Three to 5 months after implant placement, patients were rehabilitated with implant-borne dental prostheses. The following parameters were evaluated: (a) bone resorption of the regenerated ridges before and after implant placement; (b) peri-implant clinical parameters 1, 2, and 3 years after prosthetic loading of implants; (c) survival and success rates of implants. Bone resorption values before and after implant placement were significantly higher in group 1. The results suggested that both techniques may improve the deficit of vertically resorbed edentulous ridges, although distraction osteogenesis seems to be more predictable as far as the long-term prognosis of vertical bone gain is concerned. Implant survival rates as well as peri-implant clinical parameters do not differ significantly between the two groups, whereas the success rate of implants placed in group 2 patients was higher than that obtained in group 1 patients. To cite this article: Chiapasco M, Romeo E, Casentini P, Rimondini L. Alveolar distraction osteogenesis vs. vertical guided bone regeneration for the correction of vertically deficient edentulous ridges: a 1–3-year prospective study on humans. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 15, 2004; 82–95 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the following study was to evaluate the medium- to long-term prognosis of implant-supported cantilever fixed prostheses, and to establish to what degree this is influenced by factors such as length, type of cantilever (mesial or distal), and opposite dentition versus cantilever prostheses. This study was performed on a sample of 38 partially edentulous patients treated between January 1994 and March 2001 with 49 partial cantilever fixed prostheses supported by 100 implants. Marginal bone resorption (MBL) has been studied and used as a reference parameter to define therapeutic success. The MBL measurement was made possible by transposing X-ray images of patients selected on a PC and then using a software program. Statistical analysis was carried out for possible correlation between peri-implant bone resorption and the parameters considered in this study: length and type (mesial or distal) of cantilever and opposite dentition to cantilever prostheses. Seven years after loading cantilever prostheses, the overall cumulative implant survival rate (OCSR) was 97%, and the prostheses success rate is 98%. Mesial cantilever prostheses registered a lower success rate (97.1%) than distal cantilever prostheses (100%). Furthermore, a better prognosis was not observed when the opposite dentition of the prostheses comprised natural teeth, or fixed prostheses on natural teeth, when compared with the cases in which opposite teeth were implant-supported fixed prostheses. The authors concluded that medium-term prognosis of implant-supported cantilever fixed prostheses and traditional implant-supported fixed prostheses was comparable. However, a thorough pre-treatment analysis of risk factors regarding implant-supported prosthesis survival is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective study has been designed to compare the results of immediate and delayed loading of implant-retained mandibular overdentures after a 2-year follow-up. Twenty patients have been randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 patients (test group) received four ITI implants in the intraforaminal area of the mandible. Octa® abutments were immediately screwed on implants; 2 days after surgery, the implants were rigidly connected with a U-shaped Dolder gold bar and loaded with an overdenture. Group 2 patients (control group) received, in the same area, the same type and number of implants, which were left to heal according to the standard protocol. At 3–4 months, Octa abutments were screwed on the implants and the same prosthetic procedure of the test group was applied. The minimum follow-up period lasted 2 years, with recall appointments at 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6 months, 1 year and every following year postoperatively, evaluating: MPI, MBI, PD, Periotest® and radiographic peri-implant bone resorption. Success criteria according to Albrektsson et al. were used. Only one implant out of the 40 of group 2 failed, whereas none failed in group 1. No statistical difference of the clinical parameters evaluated was noticed in the two groups. Therefore, immediate loading of implants, if connected with a U-shaped bar, can provide the same results of the ‘traditional’ technique as far as osseointegration and short-term survival rates of implants are concerned. Moreover, this method significantly shortens the treatment period, thus increasing patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred and eight-seven ITI® implants were prospectively followed from November 1992 to July 2000, in order to evaluate the clinical efficiency and the long-term prognosis in 109 partially edentulous patients (69 women and 40 men; average age 41.3 years). Of these 187 implants, 69.5% were placed in the mandible and 30.5% in the maxilla. After a healing period that ranged from three to six months, the osseointegrated implants (n = 184) were restored with single crowns. Three implants were extracted prior to loading the fixture and were considered early failures. Each implant was reassessed on a yearly basis, both clinically and radiographically. The results of the investigation, which were evaluated according to predefined success criteria, were reviewed in accordance with a life table method. During the follow-up, six cases were deemed to be late failures. In each of these cases, a suppurative infection of the peri-implant tissue was diagnosed: in one implant, the infection could not be eradicated and the implant was removed. When 11 drop-outs were included in the analysis, the cumulative survival and success rates for the whole sample group were 96.77% and 93.6%, respectively. When only prosthetically loaded implants were considered, the results increased to 99.35% for the cumulative survival rate and 96.18% for the cumulative success rate. The analysis on disaggregated data showed better results for maxillary restorations (survival rate 100%) in comparison to mandible restorations (survival rate 95.11%). It was concluded that, under standard anatomic conditions (bone site height > 8 mm, thickness > 6 mm), prosthetic restoration of partially edentulous patients with the ITI system can be described as a reliable and efficient therapy in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this extension study was to compare the 10‐year outcome of 3.3 mm diameter titanium–zirconium (TiZr) or grade IV titanium (Ti) implants in mandibular implant‐overdentures. Materials and Methods: This study is the 10‐year follow‐up from a randomised, controlled, double‐blind, split‐mouth multicentre clinical trial. Patients with edentulous mandibles had received two implants in the interforaminal region (bone‐level, diameter 3.3 mm, microrough surface), one of TiZr (test) and one of Ti (control). Implant survival and success, plaque and sulcus bleeding indices, probing pocket depth, gingival margin, clinical attachment level and radiographic crestal bone levels were evaluated. Results: Fifty of 91 patients with implants were available for the 10‐year examination and 36 patients were valid for the intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis. The implant success rate was calculated as 94.6% and 91.9% for the TiZr implants and the Ti implants respectively. Four implants were lost (TiZr = 1; Ti = 3) in the entire study period. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses estimated 10‐ year implant survival rate for TiZr to 98.9% and Ti 95.8%.The mean of total and functional crestal bone loss was 1.49 mm (±1.37 mm) and 0.82 mm (±1.09 mm) in the TiZr group and 1.56 mm (±1.34 mm) and 0.85 mm (±1.16 mm) in the Ti group. Conclusions: This split‐mouth design RCT on mandibular implant‐overdentures evidenced, bearing in mind its follow‐up time‐related reduced cohort size, high 10‐year implant success‐ and survival rates. These results confirm TiZr as well‐suited implant material for realising small‐diameter implants. Registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01878331. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To compare the clinical outcomes of anterior single maxillary implants placed using conventional or guided implant surgery. Methods: In this retrospective clinical study 44 patients rehabilitated with a single anterior implant in the maxillary arch were included. Twenty‐four implants were inserted applying a guided surgery approach (GS), and 20 applying a conventional freehand approach (CS). Outcome measures were: implant survival rate and complications; mean bone level (MBL) evaluated at surgery (T0), after 6 weeks (6 W), and after 1 year (1Y), 2 years (2Y), 3 years (3Y), 4 years (4Y), and 5 years (5Y); patients' satisfaction evaluated through a questionnaire filled out before surgery (BS) and at 1 week, 6 W, 2Y and 5Y; Pink esthetic score (PES) and white esthetic score (WES) evaluated at 1Y, 3Y and 5 Y. Significance of differences between groups were tested by Fisher's exact test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Wilcoxon's signed rank test. Results: During the 5‐year follow‐up there were no drop‐outs and no implant failed. No significant differences between groups were found in MBL. A significant difference between groups was found in VAS scores regarding speech at 2 years, aesthetics at 6 weeks, confidence at 1 week and 6 weeks, satisfaction at T0 and at 1 W, pain/comfort at 1 W and at 6 W; all VAS scores resulted significantly improved compared to baseline. No significant differences in WES were found, while significant differences in PES scores between CS and GS groups were found at 3 and 5 years (p value = 0.023 and 0.004 respectively) with better outcomes for GS. A significant difference over time was found in PES between 5‐year and one‐year values. Conclusions: Guided surgery and conventional surgery implants did not show any difference in MBL during the 5‐year observation period. Guided surgical procedure guarantee optimal esthetic outcome and seems able to guarantee better soft tissue result over time, even though more long‐term studies are necessary to confirm this data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: (a) To evaluate retrospectively the clinical outcome of non-vascularized bone grafts used for the reconstruction of mandibular defects following tumor resection; (b) to evaluate the clinical outcome of implants and implant-supported prostheses placed in the reconstructed areas; and (c) to evaluate patients' satisfaction regarding function and esthetics after oral rehabilitation. Material and methods: In a 9-year period (1995–2003), 29 patients affected by mandibular tumors involving to tooth bearing areas were treated by means of tumor resection and immediate or delayed reconstruction with autogenous non-revascularized calvarial or iliac bone grafts. Among these patients, 16 patients were selected for dental rehabilitation of the lost dentition with implant-supported 3fixed prosthese333s. For to 7 months later, the patients received 60 oral implants for the prosthetic rehabilitation of the reconstructed edentulous areas. Results: No total failure of the graft was observed, while partial loss of the graft was observed in one patient. The mean follow-up of patients after the start of prosthetic loading of implants treated was 94 months (range: 36–132 months). Two patients dropped out of the follow-up after 3 and 4 years of observation, respectively. Two implants were removed due to loss of osseointegration, while two implants, although still integrated, presented peri-implant bone resorption values higher than those proposed by Albrektsson et al. for successful implants. Cumulative survival and success rates of implants were 96.7% and 93.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Results from this study demonstrated that bone defects following resection of mandibular tumors can be predictably reconstructed with autogenous bone grafts taken from the calvarium or the anterior iliac crest. It has also been shown that the long-term survival and success rates of implants placed in the reconstructed areas (96.7% and 93.3%, respectively) may guarantee an excellent prognosis of implant-supported prostheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical outcome of two different surgical methods for the reconstruction of narrow edentulous ridges before implant installation: guided bone regeneration with e-PTFE membranes and autologous bone chips or grafting of autologous bone blocks without e-PTFE membranes. Thirty partially edentulous patients, presenting insufficient bone width (less than 4 mm) in the edentulous sites for installation of screw-type titanium implants, were selected and assigned to two different treatment modalities. Fifteen patients (group 1) were treated by means of guided bone regeneration with e-PTFE membranes supported by stainless steel wews and autologous bone chips taken from intraoral sites. Fifteen patients (group 2) were treated by means of autologous bone blocks taken from intraoral or extraoral sites (anterior iliac crest and calvaria) and stabilized with titanium microscrews. Six to 8 months later, during re-entry for implant insertion, the gain of ridge width obtained was measured. In group 1 the average amount of bone gain was 2.7 mm, whereas in group 2 the value was 4.0 mm. Five to 6 months after implant placement prosthetic rehabilitation was started. The mean follow-up after prosthetic load has been 22.4 months. Success rates of implants according to Albrektsson criteria has been 93.3% in group 1, and 90.9% in group 2. Although a statistical comparison between the two treatment modalities may not be feasible, due to the bias resulting from the choice of treatment by the clinician and from the differences in donor sites and defect extension, some considerations can be made: 1) both methods are a reliable means for the correction of narrow edentulous ridges; 2) both techniques necessitate overcorrection of the defect because of interposition of connective tissue beneath the membrane in the first group and bone resorption in the second one; 3) the use of semipermeable barriers increases the costs of the surgical procedure, as... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fit and stability of traditional dentures can deteriorate over time. Implant‐supported fixed‐removable overdentures offer functional and esthetic benefits over traditional tissue‐supported dentures. However, few clinical studies have been performed on CAD CAM implant bar overdentures to date. Aim/Hypothesis: This open prospective multicenter study evaluated the clinical and radiological performance of an individualized CAD CAM bar overdenture supported by locator attachments on 4 anodized implants with conical connection placed in the maxilla and mandible. 1‐year interim outcomes are reported. Material and Methods: Patients needing full‐arch restoration in the maxilla or mandible were included. Implants (NobelReplace CC, Nobel Biocare AB, Gothenburg, Sweden) were placed in healed or extraction sites. On the day of implant placement, a soft tissue‐based overdenture was incorporated without pressure on the implants. The final CAD CAM bar (NobelProcera,) and overdenture were provided ≥3 months after implant placement. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at implant insertion and the 1‐year follow‐up visit. The primary outcome was marginal bone level change (ΔMBL). The secondary outcomes were implant and prosthetic cumulative survival rate (CSR), cumulative success rate, soft tissue outcomes, patient satisfaction, and quality of life according to OHIP‐EDENT 21. Calculations were performed using SPSS v24.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and SAS v9 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA). Results: Three hundred and eight implants were placed in 77 patients (40 maxilla + 37 mandible). 72 patients (290 implants‐ 146 maxilla, 144 mandible) completed the 1‐year visit. The ΔMBL for the maxilla and mandible were −1.82 ± 1.72 mm (_I_n_i_ = 84) and −1.24 ± 1.59 mm (_I_n_i_ = 103), respectively. ΔMBL was not significantly different between jaws (_I_P_i_ = 0.093). The implant and prosthetic CSR was 99.0% and 100%, respectively (96.1% patient level survival). Three maxillary implants failed in 3 patients and no prostheses failed. The cumulative success rate for implants and prostheses were 91.4% and 94.7%, respectively. Soft tissue parameters were less favorable at 1‐year compared to implant insertion. OHIP‐EDENT 21 scores fell from 48.5 ± 16.4 to 28.3 ± 8.4 from pretreatment to 1‐year. According to patient satisfaction surveys, 34% of patients stated that they would prefer a fixed solution at 1 year. _B_Conclusions and Clinical Implications_b_ These outcomes suggest that a fixed‐removable CAD CAM bar overdenture supported on four anodized tapered implants with conical connection exhibit very good survival rates after 1‐year of function. However, approximately one‐third of patients indicated a preference for a fixed solution, suggesting that patients desire restorative treatments with minimal maintenance requirements and function that more closely resembles natural dentition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate in which clinical situations a cantilever fixed implant supported restorations can be a treatment alternative and which complications are reported. Materials and Methods: Two operators screened the literature (MEDLINE, EMBASE) and performed a hand search on the main journals dealing with implantology and prosthetics until 31 December 2017. Only articles that considered cantilever implant fixed restorations with at least 10 patients and with a mean follow‐up of at least 5 year were selected. The outcome variables were survival of implants and prosthesis, mechanical, technical and biological complications, marginal bone loss. The review was performed according to the PRISMA statements. Risk of bias assessment was evaluated. Failure and complication rates were analysed using random effect Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimate of 5‐ and 10‐year survival and complication rates. Results: A total of nine papers were selected for partially edentulous patients and reported high survival rate of the prosthesis. The estimated survival rate for 5–10 years was calculated to be 98.4% for the implants and 99.2% for the rehabilitations. Mechanical, technical and biological complications were reported with a cumulative 5–10 years complication rate of 28.66% and 26.57% for the patients and for the prosthesis, respectively. Two papers for single implant supporting 2‐unit cantilever were not sufficient to draw conclusions. Conclusions: There is evidence that cantilever can be successful treatment in partially edentulous patients. In two adjacent edentulous sites, data are not yet sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate fully edentulous patients rehabilitated with cantilever‐fixed implant‐supported restorations and to analyse which complications are reported for this type of treatment. Materials and Methods: Two operators screened the literature (MEDLINE, EMBASE) and performed a hand search on the main journals dealing with implantology and prosthetics until 31 December 2017. Only articles that considered cantilever implant‐fixed restorations with at least 10 patients and with a mean follow‐up of at least 5 years were selected. The outcome variables were survival of implants and prosthesis, mechanical, technical and biological complications, marginal bone loss. The review was performed according to the PRISMA statements. The risk of bias was evaluated for each article. Failure and complication rates were analysed using random effect Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimate of 5‐ and 10‐year survival and complication rates. Results: Fourteen papers for fully edentulous patients were selected. The estimated 5 to 10 years survival rate was calculated to be 99.00% and 96.7% for the implants and the prosthesis, respectively. A total of 299 complications (technical and biological) were reported with a cumulative 5–10 years complication rate of 44.41% and 39.46% for the patients and for the prosthesis, respectively. Conclusions: There is evidence that cantilever can be successful treatment in fully edentulous patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the present publication was to report on the EAO Workshop group‐4 discussions and consensus statements on the five reviews previously prepared. These reviews provided the scientific evidence on the effect of crown‐to‐implant ratio, on reconstructions with cantilevers in fully and partially edentulous patients, on biological and technical complications of tilted in comparison with straight implants, and on the effects of osseointegrated implants functioning in a residual dentition. Material and Methods: The group discussed, evaluated, corrected where deemed appropriate, and made recommendations to the authors regarding the following five reviews submitted: (a) Is there an effect of crown‐to‐implant ratio on implant treatment outcomes?; (b) Implant‐supported cantilevered fixed dental rehabilitations in fully edentulous patients; (c) and in partially edentulous patients; (d) Biological and technical complications of tilted implants in comparison with straight implants supporting fixed dental prostheses; (e) What are the adverse effects of osseointegrated implants functioning among natural teeth of a residual dentition? Based on the five manuscripts and the discussion among the group as well as the plenum members, the major findings were summarized, consensus statements were formulated, clinical recommendations were proposed, and areas of future research were identified. Results: Crown‐to‐implant ratios ranging from 0.9 to 2.2 did not influence the occurrence of biological or technical complications also in single‐tooth restorations. Reconstructions with cantilevers for the rehabilitation of fully and partially edentulous jaws showed high implant and reconstruction survival rates. In contrast, the rate of complications—in particular associated with veneering material—was high during the observation period of 5–10 years. The data reported were primarily derived from studies with high risk of bias. The data for single‐implant reconstructions were small. There was no evidence that distally tilted implants were associated with higher failure rates and increased amounts of marginal bone loss. The data supporting these findings, however, were at high risk of bias and frequently incompletely reported. Frequent positional changes occurred between the natural teeth and the implant‐supported restorations. These changes were more pronounced in younger individuals, and even though they were reduced with age, they still occurred in adult patients. Even though these changes were frequent, potential implications for the patient are unclear. Conclusions: The use of single‐tooth restorations with crown‐to‐implant ratio in between 0.9 and 2.2 may be considered a viable treatment option. Multiunit reconstructions with cantilevers are a viable treatment option in fully and partially edentulous patients. Clinicians and patients should be aware, however, that complications are frequent and primarily related to resin material used for veneering. There is some evidence that tilting an implant does affect stability of the implant and the surrounding bone. Treatment options to tilted implants should carefully be considered, as the effect on soft tissues and on prosthesis behavior is poorly reported for tilted implants. Positional changes in the dentition in relation to implant‐supported restorations occur frequently. The patient should be informed about the possible need for a treatment related to these changes in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate fully edentulous patients rehabilitated with cantilever‐fixed implant‐supported restorations and to analyse which complications are reported for this type of treatment. Materials and Methods: Two operators screened the literature (MEDLINE, EMBASE) and performed a hand search on the main journals dealing with implantology and prosthetics until 31 December 2017. Only articles that considered cantilever implant‐fixed restorations with at least 10 patients and with a mean follow‐up of at least 5 years were selected. The outcome variables were survival of implants and prosthesis, mechanical, technical and biological complications, marginal bone loss. The review was performed according to the PRISMA statements. The risk of bias was evaluated for each article. Failure and complication rates were analysed using random effect Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimate of 5‐ and 10‐year survival and complication rates. Results: Fourteen papers for fully edentulous patients were selected. The estimated 5 to 10 years survival rate was calculated to be 99.00% and 96.7% for the implants and the prosthesis, respectively. A total of 299 complications (technical and biological) were reported with a cumulative 5–10 years complication rate of 44.41% and 39.46% for the patients and for the prosthesis, respectively. Conclusions: There is evidence that cantilever can be successful treatment in fully edentulous patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate in which clinical situations a cantilever fixed implant supported restorations can be a treatment alternative and which complications are reported. Materials and Methods: Two operators screened the literature (MEDLINE, EMBASE) and performed a hand search on the main journals dealing with implantology and prosthetics until 31 December 2017. Only articles that considered cantilever implant fixed restorations with at least 10 patients and with a mean follow‐up of at least 5 year were selected. The outcome variables were survival of implants and prosthesis, mechanical, technical and biological complications, marginal bone loss. The review was performed according to the PRISMA statements. Risk of bias assessment was evaluated. Failure and complication rates were analysed using random effect Poisson regression models to obtain summary estimate of 5‐ and 10‐year survival and complication rates. Results: A total of nine papers were selected for partially edentulous patients and reported high survival rate of the prosthesis. The estimated survival rate for 5–10 years was calculated to be 98.4% for the implants and 99.2% for the rehabilitations. Mechanical, technical and biological complications were reported with a cumulative 5–10 years complication rate of 28.66% and 26.57% for the patients and for the prosthesis, respectively. Two papers for single implant supporting 2‐unit cantilever were not sufficient to draw conclusions. Conclusions: There is evidence that cantilever can be successful treatment in partially edentulous patients. In two adjacent edentulous sites, data are not yet sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the present publication was to report on the EAO Workshop group‐4 discussions and consensus statements on the five reviews previously prepared. These reviews provided the scientific evidence on the effect of crown‐to‐implant ratio, on reconstructions with cantilevers in fully and partially edentulous patients, on biological and technical complications of tilted in comparison with straight implants, and on the effects of osseointegrated implants functioning in a residual dentition. Material and Methods: The group discussed, evaluated, corrected where deemed appropriate, and made recommendations to the authors regarding the following five reviews submitted: (a) Is there an effect of crown‐to‐implant ratio on implant treatment outcomes?; (b) Implant‐supported cantilevered fixed dental rehabilitations in fully edentulous patients; (c) and in partially edentulous patients; (d) Biological and technical complications of tilted implants in comparison with straight implants supporting fixed dental prostheses; (e) What are the adverse effects of osseointegrated implants functioning among natural teeth of a residual dentition? Based on the five manuscripts and the discussion among the group as well as the plenum members, the major findings were summarized, consensus statements were formulated, clinical recommendations were proposed, and areas of future research were identified. Results: Crown‐to‐implant ratios ranging from 0.9 to 2.2 did not influence the occurrence of biological or technical complications also in single‐tooth restorations. Reconstructions with cantilevers for the rehabilitation of fully and partially edentulous jaws showed high implant and reconstruction survival rates. In contrast, the rate of complications—in particular associated with veneering material—was high during the observation period of 5–10 years. The data reported were primarily derived from studies with high risk of bias. The data for single‐implant reconstructions were small. There was no evidence that distally tilted implants were associated with higher failure rates and increased amounts of marginal bone loss. The data supporting these findings, however, were at high risk of bias and frequently incompletely reported. Frequent positional changes occurred between the natural teeth and the implant‐supported restorations. These changes were more pronounced in younger individuals, and even though they were reduced with age, they still occurred in adult patients. Even though these changes were frequent, potential implications for the patient are unclear. Conclusions: The use of single‐tooth restorations with crown‐to‐implant ratio in between 0.9 and 2.2 may be considered a viable treatment option. Multiunit reconstructions with cantilevers are a viable treatment option in fully and partially edentulous patients. Clinicians and patients should be aware, however, that complications are frequent and primarily related to resin material used for veneering. There is some evidence that tilting an implant does affect stability of the implant and the surrounding bone. Treatment options to tilted implants should carefully be considered, as the effect on soft tissues and on prosthesis behavior is poorly reported for tilted implants. Positional changes in the dentition in relation to implant‐supported restorations occur frequently. The patient should be informed about the possible need for a treatment related to these changes in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of the present clinical trial was to analyze, through spectrophotometric digital technology, the influence of the abutment material on the color of the peri-implant soft tissue in patients with thin gingival biotype. Material and methods Thirty-seven patients received an endosseous dental implant in the anterior maxilla. At time of each definitive prosthesis delivery, an all-ceramic crown has been tried on gold, titanium and zirconia abutment. Peri-implant soft-tissue color has been measured through a spectrophotometer after the insertion of each single abutment. Also facial peri-implant soft-tissue thickness was measured at the level of the implant neck through a caliper. A specific software has been utilized to identify a standardized tissue area and to collect the data before the statistical analysis in Lab* color space. Δ E parameters of the selected abutments were tested for correlation with mucosal thickness. Pearson correlation test was used. Results Only 15 patients met the study inclusion criteria on peri-implant soft-tissue thickness. Peri-implant soft-tissue color was different from that around natural teeth, no matter which type of restorative material was selected. Measurements regarding all the abutments were above the critical threshold of Δ E 8.74 for intraoral color distinction by the naked eye. The Δ E mean values of gold and zirconium abutments were similar (11.43 and 11.37, respectively) and significantly lower ( P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively) than the titanium abutment (13.55). In patients with a facial soft-tissue thickness ≤2 mm, the Δ E mean value of gold and zirconia abutments was significantly lower than that of titanium abutments ( P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively) and much more close to the reference threshold of 8.74. Conclusions For peri-implant soft tissue of ≤2 mm, gold or zirconia abutments could be selected in anterior areas treatment. Moreover, the thickness of the peri-implant soft tissue seemed to be a crucial factor in the abutment impact on the color of soft tissues with a thickness of ≤2 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of this study was to transfer the provisional restoration emergence profile to the final implant-supported restoration and to buccal gingival margin ( BGM) stability after 2 years of function. Materials and Methods A total of 33 patients were recruited for treatment of single gaps by means of 33 implant-supported restorations. Fixed provisional crowns were screwed to the fixture and adjusted until the complete peri-implant soft tissue maturation was achieved. After 12 weeks, a second fixture impression was taken by means of a pick-up customization technique in order to transfer the clinical aspect of the peri-implant soft tissues to the master cast. A definitive restoration was delivered. A standardized method from digital photographs was used to assess the gingival margin modification ( BGM) from the provisional ( P) to the definitive prosthesis installation at baseline ( D0), and after 1 ( D1) and 2 years ( D2) of function. Also, marginal bone loss ( MBL) was calculated after 1 ( D1) and 2 years ( D2) of definitive restoration function. Results The BGM index at the time of the final restoration installation ( D0) was 0.12 ± 0.33 mm if compared with the BGM position of the provisional restoration ( P); it was of 0.12 ± 0.46 mm after 1-year of follow-up ( D1) and of 0.31 ± 0.21 after 2 years of function ( D2). No significant difference was calculated between measurements in different follow-up visits ( p > 0.05). No significant MBL was measured between the baseline ( D0) and the 1-year follow-up ( p = 0.816) with a mean MBL value of 0.2 ± 0.1 mm. Similar result was calculated after 2 years ( p = 0.684) with a mean MBL value of 0.3 ± 0.2. Conclusion A modified impression pick-up may be helpful to reproduce the gingival margin position from the provisional to the definitive restoration. Moreover, the gingival zenith position during the follow-up period seemed to be stable. Clinical Significance The modification of the standard impression pick-up technique may contribute to reproducing a natural emergence profile of esthetic implant prosthetic restorations (from the provisional to the definitive restoration.) With this technique, implant soft tissues stability around CAD-CAM (computer aided design - computer aided manufacturing) abutments can be easily obtained, and the customized abutment shape may better support the scalloped peri-implant soft tissues architecture, especially in anterior areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Aim of this study was to verify if the type of implant abutment manufacturing, stock or cad-cam, could influence the maintenance of stable gingival margins around single restorations in anterior areas. Methods After 16 weeks of healing, implants (Osseospeed, Astra Tech Dental Implant) were positioned. Depending on the different fixture inclination and the thickness of buccal peri-implant soft tissue, abutment selection resulted in four groups: Group 1 (patients with zirconia ZirDesign® stock abutments), Group 2 (titanium stock TiDesign® abutments), Group 3 (zirconia cad-cam abutments), and Group 4 (titanium cad-cam abutments). The following parameters were assessed: buccal gingival margin modification ( BGM). The modification of the implant gingival margin was followed at 1 and 2 years of follow-up. A computerized analysis was performed for measurements. Differences between soft tissue margin at baseline and after 2 years measured the gingival margin recession. A general linear model was used to evaluate each group in relation to gingival recession after two years. Tukey's post hoc test was used to compare the mean REC indexes of each group of abutments. Results Seventy-two healthy patients (39 males and 33 females; mean age of 46 years) scheduled for single gap rehabilitation in anterior areas were enrolled. A 100% of implant survival rate was observed after 24 months of function. One failure occurred due to fracture of a Zirconia cad-cam abutment. Moreover, two abutment screw unscrewing were observed. Both for zirconia and titanium stock abutments (Group 1 and 2), the mean recession of implant buccal soft tissue was of 0.3 mm ( SD of 0.3 and 0.4 mm, respectively). Soft tissue mean recession of zirconia and titanium cad-cam abutments (Group 3 and 4) was of 0.1 and −0.3 mm, respectively ( SD of 0.3 and 0.4 mm, respectively). REC values of cad-cam titanium abutments (Group 4) were significantly lower than that of Group 1 (−0.57 mm), Group 2 (−0.61 mm), and Group 3 (−0.40 mm), respectively (Table [Comparison]). Conclusion In the anterior area, the use of cad-cam abutments is related to a better soft tissue stability. Such a relationship is significant if cad-cam titanium abutments are compared to both titanium and zirconia stock abutments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of this study was to compare crestal bone-level changes, soft tissue parameters and implant success and survival between small-diameter implants made of titanium/zirconium ( Ti Zr) alloy or of Grade IV titanium ( Ti) in edentulous mandibles restored with removable overdentures. Materials and Methods This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind, split-mouth multicenter clinical trial. Patients with edentulous mandibles received two Straumann bone-level implants (diameter 3.3 mm), one of Ti Grade IV (control) and one of Ti Zr (test), in the interforaminal region. Implants were loaded after 6-8 weeks and removable Locator-retained overdentures were placed within 2 weeks of loading. Modified plaque and sulcus bleeding indices, radiographic bone level, and implant survival and success were evaluated up to 36 months. Results Of 91 treated patients, 75 completed the three-year follow-up. Three implants were lost (two control and one test implant). The survival rates were 98.7% and 97.3%, and the mean marginal bone level change was −0.78 ± 0.75 and −0.60 ± 0.71 mm for Ti Zr and Ti Grade IV implants. Most patients had a plaque score of 0 or 1 (54% for test and 51.7% for control), and a sulcus bleeding score of 0 (46.1% for test and 44.9% for control). No significant differences were found between the two implant types for bone-level change, soft tissue parameters, survival and success. Conclusions After 36 months, similar outcomes were found between Ti Grade IV and Ti Zr implants. The results confirm that the results seen at 12 months continue over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare (1) the clinical outcome of the reconstruction of extremely atrophic edentulous maxillae with fresh frozen allogeneic bone ( FFB) (group A) and autogenous bone ( AB) (group B) iliac blocks; and (2) the peri-implant bone resorption and the survival rate of implants in the two groups. Materials and Methods In a 1-year period, eight patients were treated with FFB and seven with AB iliac grafts. Five to seven months afterward, 108 implants were inserted (59 in group A and 49 in group B). Four to five months afterward, patients were rehabilitated with implant-supported prostheses. The mean follow-up was 24 months. Results Prior to implant placement, graft exposure occurred in two patients in group A and in one patient in group B. The mean graft resorption prior to implant placement was 0.78 mm and 0.54 mm in group A and B, respectively. After implant placement, bone graft exposures with partial loss of the graft occurred in six out of eight patients in group A and in none of the group B patients. The survival rate of implants was 90.1% and 100% in group A and B, respectively. The mean values of peri-implant bone resorption at the end of the follow-up period were 1.64 mm and 0.92 mm in group A and B, respectively. Conclusion Results of this study seem to demonstrate that FFB does not represent a reliable alternative to AB blocks because of the higher rate of bone exposure and partial loss of the grafts, the lower implant survival, and the higher peri-implant bone resorption in FFB patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose While extensive references are present in the literature dealing with the correlation between subjective and objective evaluation of tooth shade, there is a lack of information on this correlation regarding the soft tissue color. The purpose of this experimental study was to verify whether a correlation between the objective and subjective evaluation exists in analyzing soft tissue color. Material and methods A total of 39 patients with at least one implant-supported restoration in the anterior maxilla were included in the study. The shade of the peri-implant mucosa was compared with the shade of the gingiva at the adjacent tooth in a subjective and in an objective manner. The subjective evaluation was performed by five dental professionals (prosthodontist, periodontist, general dentist, dental hygienist, and dental assistant) in a subjective scale (ranging from 1 to 4). The objective evaluation was obtained by means of a spectrophotometer in a CIELAB* Color Scale, and the differences were evaluated through formula [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background: The use of endosseous dental implants has become common practice for the rehabilitation of edentulous patients, and a two-implant overdenture has been recommended as the standard of care. The use of small-diameter implants may extend treatment options and reduce the necessity for bone augmentation. However, the mechanical strength of titanium is limited, so titanium alloys with greater tensile and fatigue strength may be preferable. Purpose: This randomized, controlled, double-blind, multicenter study investigated in a split-mouth model whether small-diameter implants made from Titanium-13Zirconium alloy (TiZr, Roxolid™) perform at least as well as Titanium Grade IV implants. Methods and Materials: Patients with an edentulous mandible received one TiZr and one Ti Grade IV small-diameter bone level implant (3.3 mm, SLActive®) in the interforaminal region. The site distribution was randomized and double-blinded. Outcome measures included change in radiological peri-implant bone level from surgery to 12 months post-insertion (primary), implant survival, success, soft tissue conditions, and safety (secondary). Results: Of 91 treated patients, 87 were available for the 12-month follow-up. Peri-implant bone level change (−0.3 ± 0.5 mm vs −0.3 ± 0.6 mm), plaque, and sulcus bleeding indices were not significantly different between TiZr and Ti Grade IV implants. Implant survival rates were 98.9 percent and 97.8 percent, success rates were 96.6 percent and 94.4 percent, respectively. Nineteen minor and no serious adverse events were related to the study devices. Conclusion: This study confirms that TiZr small-diameter bone level implants provide at least the same outcomes after 12 months as Ti Grade IV bone level implants. The improved mechanical properties of TiZr implants may extend implant therapy to more challenging clinical situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this clinical research on implant-supported restorations is to analyze, through spectrophotometric digital technology, the influence of the abutment material on the color of the peri-implant soft tissue. Twenty patients received an endosseous dental implant in the anterior maxilla. At the time of each definitive prosthesis delivery, an all-ceramic crown has been tried on gold, titanium and zirconia abutment. After the insertion of each single abutment, the peri-implant soft tissue color has been measured through a spectrophotometer. Also, the thickness of the facial peri-implant soft tissue was measured at the level of the implant neck through a caliper. A specific software has been utilized to identify a specific tissue area and to collect the data before the statistical analysis in Lab color space. The normality of the quantitative variables was verified by means of the Shapiro-Wilk test. Simple linear correlation between quantitative variables was evaluated by using Pearson's coefficient. The results on the performance of the abutment materials with regard to the color measurements and the overall measurement Δ E were described by computing the least-square means. The significance of differences among types of abutment was verified by means of the Scheffe test for multiple comparisons. For all the abutments used, the color of the peri-implant soft tissue appeared to be significantly different from the one of the contra-lateral tooth (Δ E>8.5). Significantly higher ( P<0.05) difference were present with the use of titanium abutments (11 ± 0.4) when compared with the results of gold (8.9 ± 0.4) and zirconia (8.5 ± 0.4) abutments. No correlation has been demonstrated between soft tissue thickness and degree of color difference ( P>0.25). Within the limitation of the present study, the peri-implant soft tissue color appears to be different from the soft tissue color around natural teeth, no matter which type of restorative material is selected. When titanium abutment was selected, significantly higher differences were present than those obtained with gold or zirconia abutments. The thickness of the peri-implant soft tissue did not appear to be a crucial factor in the abutment impact on the soft tissue color. Bressan E, Paniz G, Lops D, Corazza B, Romeo E, Favero G. Influence Of abutment material on the gingival color of implant supported all-ceramic restorations: a prospective multicenter study Clin. Oral Impl. Res. , 2011; 631-637. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0501.2010.02008.x [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implant single-tooth replacement with a natural appearance is a challenging and demanding procedure. The aim of this prospective study was to identify the factors affecting the presence of an inter-proximal papilla between a tooth and an implant. Methods: Forty-six patients with a total of 46 teeth scheduled for tooth extraction and immediate implant placement into fresh sockets were included in the study. Immediate implants were positioned after teeth removal. After 4 months of healing, the implants were restored with single crown fixed prostheses. The following parameters were assessed: (1) presence/absence of the inter-proximal papilla, (2) gingival index, (3) inter-implant–tooth distance (ITD) and (4) distance from the base of the contact point to the inter-dental bone (CPB). A computerized analysis was performed to determine ITD and CPB values after converting perioapical radiographs to digitalized images. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the effect of ITD and CPB on the presence or absence of the inter-proximal papilla. Results: All the implants were restored, so that a 100% of implant survival rate was observed after 12 months of function. Mean values were recorded for ITD and CPB parameters, respectively. When ITD was 3–4 mm, and CPB was 3–5 mm, the inter-proximal papilla was significantly present ( P<0.05). Conclusions: The recommended inter-proximal space dimensions are 3–4 mm between an implant and the adjacent tooth, and 3–5 mm between the base of the CPB. The interaction between the surgical and prosthetic plans represents the key factor to optimize the edentulous site for predictable anterior single-implant esthetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: (a) To evaluate the clinical outcome of fibula revascularized flaps used for the reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects due to resection for tumors or osteoradionecrosis and (b) to evaluate the survival and success rates of implants placed in the reconstructed areas. Material and methods: In a 8-year period (1995–2002), 59 patients, 38 males and 21 females, aged from 13 years to 69 years (mean age: 48.7 years), presenting with maxillary and mandibular defects due to resection for tumors or osteoradionecrosis, were reconstructed with fibula-free flaps. Of the 59 patients, 16 received 71 implants for the prosthetic rehabilitation of the reconstructed edentulous areas. Results: Out of 59 fibula-free flaps, three failed and had to be removed, nine underwent partial necrosis involving the bone segment and/or the skin paddle but survived, while the remaining 47 healed uneventfully. The mean follow-up of patients after the reconstruction was 55 months (range: 24–120 months). The cumulative survival rate of fibula-free flaps was 94.9%. The mean follow-up of the 16 patients treated with dental implants and implant-supported prostheses was 50.2 months (range: 24–96 months). The cumulative implant success and survival rates of implants were 98.6% and 93.1% respectively. Conclusion: The reconstruction of maxillo-mandibular defects following ablation for tumors or osteoradionecrosis with fibula- free flaps has been demonstrated to be a reliable technique with good long-term results. Implants placed in the reconstructed areas were demonstrated to integrate normally, with success and survival rates comparable to those obtained in case of implants placed in native bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors compared bone resorption of autogenous bone grafts and revascularized free flaps used for the reconstruction of mandibular continuity defects following resection for tumors, before and after the placement of endosseous implants. Ten patients (group 1) were treated with autogenous bone grafts taken from the fibula or the anterior iliac crest; 8 patients (group 2) were treated with iliac or fibula revascularized flaps. Four to 8 months later, 72 endosseous implants were placed in the reconstructed areas. After a further healing period of 4–6 months, patients were rehabilitated with implant-borne prostheses. The following parameters were evaluated and compared between the two groups: 1) bone resorption of grafts and free flaps before and after implant placement; 2) peri-implant bone resorption mesial and distal to each implant, immediately after prosthetic rehabilitation and then during yearly follow-ups. Bone resorption before implant placement showed mean values of 3.53 mm in group 1, and 0.96 mm in group 2. Peri-implant bone resorption was: 0.49 mm (39 implants) in group 1, and 0.45 mm (30 implants) in group 2, at time of prosthetic rehabilitation; 0.78 mm (39 implants) in group 1, and 0.89 mm (30 implants) in group 2, 12 months after prosthetic load; 1.16 mm (24 implants) in group 1, and 1.02 mm (13 implants) in group 2, 24 months after the prosthetic load. A significant difference in bone resorption before implant placement was found between the two groups, whereas it was not found after implant placement and prosthetic load. The failure rate according to Albrektsson criteria was 4.9% (2/41 implants) in group 1, and was 3.2% (1/31) in group 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited information on the effect of the connection between subcrestally placed implants and abutments on marginal bone levels. The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate marginal bone levels after definitive prosthesis delivery around implants with an internal 5° conical connection placed in a subcrestal position. Materials and methods: Patients treated with fixed prostheses supported by implants placed at a subcrestal level between 2012 and 2018 were recalled for a follow-up examination. All implants had 5° internal conical connection with platform switching. Radiographic marginal bone level (MBL) was measured. MBL change between prosthetic delivery (t0) and follow-up examination (t1) was calculated. A multiple regression model was performed to identify the most significant predictors on MBL change. Results: Ninety-three patients and 410 implants, with a mean follow-up of 2.72 ± 1.31 years, were examined. Mean MBL was −1.09 ± 0.65 mm and −1.00 ± 0.37 mm at t0 and t1, respectively, with a mean bone remodeling of 0.09 ± 0.68 mm. An implant's vertical position in relation to the bone crest, the year of follow up and the presence of type-2 controlled diabetes were demonstrated to be influencing factors for MBL modifications. Conclusions: Subcrestally placed implants with platform switching and internal conical connection maintained stable bone levels over a mean follow-up of more than 2 years. How a tight internal conical connection between abutment and implant may contribute to this clinical evidence should be more deeply investigated. MBL variations seem to be mostly influenced by an implant's vertical position and presence of type-2 controlled diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]