Effects of abutment materials on peri-implant soft tissue health and stability: A network meta-analysis

Abstract

Replacing severely compromised or missing teeth with dental implants to restore function and aesthetics represents a successful therapy with a high long-term success rate[1]. However, different technical, mechanical, or biological complications may occur, compromising the implant's success [2]. Some of these failures can be observed in a short duration; however, most take place after years of function [3]. Among them, peri-implant infection is considered one of the most important causes of failure [4,5]. The establishment and maintenance of healthy peri-implant soft tissue are considered key factors for the long-term success of dental implants [6].The intimate contact between the peri-implant mucosa and dental implant abutment makes the soft tissue seal around dental implants. This seal is crucial to protect soft and hard tissue from bacterial contamination and prevent the development of peri-implant disease, which may lead to bone loss and affect dental implant survival or success [7].The adhesion, colonization, and proliferation of bacteria on dental implant abutments largely depend on surface properties, like surface free energy, roughness, and compatibility [8][9][10][11][12][13].Strategies to reduce microbial adhesion and biofilm formation on implant abutment surfaces and the consequent risk of periimplant disease have been introduced. These include the use of titanium abutments with a modified surface, cleaning methods of the abutments before their use, and the use of different abutment materials [14][15][16][17][18][19][20].Historically, titanium abutments have been the gold standard and are still widely used. Titanium abutments are biocompatible and have optimal mechanical resistance[21], a very high survival rate, and few mechanical complications [22].

Clinical, Radiological, and Aesthetic Outcomes after Placement of a Bioactive-Surfaced Implant with Immediate or Delayed Loading in the Anterior Maxilla: 1-Year Retrospective Follow-Up Study

“…Qualitatively, there is an increase in the number of adhered cells, while quantitatively, the arrangement of cells is more spread out rather than flat. This stronger cell adhesion promotes better osseointegration and enhances the overall success of the implant [36].…”

Enhancing angiogenesis in peri-implant soft tissue with bioactive silk fibroin microgroove coatings on zirconia surfaces

“…This barrier is crucial for biological healing, preventing inflammation around the implant and ensuring its long-term retention [ 1 ]. Compared to titanium-based abutments, zirconia abutments not only offer superior aesthetic properties [ 2 ] and inhibit bacterial adhesion [ 3–5 ], but also enhance biocompatibility [ 6 ], increasing their utility in clinical settings. However, despite these advantages, the biologically inert surface of zirconia can pose a challenge for the integration of the soft tissue surrounding the implant.…”