Background: Universal strategies for managing peri-implantitis are yet to be adopted. The aim of this study is to examine a protocol of intensive application of chlorhexidine containing chips in sites with peri-implantitis. Materials and Methods: This multi-centre, randomized, double-blind, parallel, two-arm clinical trial included 60 patients (77 implants) with probing depth (PD) 6-10 mm and bone loss ! 2 mm around 1-2 implants. One to two weeks following SRP, baseline measurements were made followed by implants' debridement. Patients were randomized to receive matrix chips (MatrixC) or chlorhexidine Chips (PerioC). Measurements and chips placement were repeated at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 18. At 6 months, patients returned for final examination. Results: Probing depth reduction was greater in the PerioC (2.19 ± 0.24 mm) compared with MatrixC (1.59 ± 0.23 mm), p = 0.07. Seventy percentage of the implants in the PerioC and 54% in the MatrixC had PD reduction ! 2 mm. Likewise, 40% of the sites (PerioC) and 24% (MatrixC) had PD reduction ! 3 mm. Clinical attachment level gains for both groups were significant; however, the changes in the PerioC group were significantly greater than in MatrixC [2.21 ± 0.23 mm. and 1.56 ± 0.25 mm respectively, p = 0.05]. Bleeding on probing was reduced by half in both groups. Conclusion: Frequent placement of PerioC and MatrixC together with implants debridement resulted in a substantial improvement in sites with peri-implantitis. Further studies will be required to fully appreciate the mechanism of this treatment.

Use of the new TA, with its significantly downsized diameter, resulted in reduced bone loss at 1 year. Further research will be required to assess the long-term effect of this abutment on peri-implant health.

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