Autotransplantation with Adjunctive Application of Enamel Matrix Derivatives Using a Digital Workflow: A Prospective Case Series.

OBJECTIVES: Digital protocols and bioactive materials may reduce complications and improve tooth autotransplantation (ATT) success and survival rates. This prospective study assesses the performance of a fully digital autotransplantation protocol of close-apex molars with the adjunctive application of Enamel Matrix Derivatives (EMD). METHODS: Twelve adult patients with 13 hopeless molar teeth were replaced with autotransplantation of closed apex third molars. Outcomes, including success and survival rates, clinical, endodontic, radiographic, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and digital image assessments, were conducted over a two-year follow-up period. RESULTS: Survival and success rates were 100% and 91.2%, respectively, with no progressive inflammatory or replacement root resorption (ankylosis) except for one tooth presenting radiographic furcation involvement. A significant probing depth reduction of 2.4 ± 2.58 mm and CAL gains of 2.8 ± 3.03 mm were observed in transplanted teeth compared to the hopeless receptor teeth. Radiographic bone levels remained stable throughout the study period (-0.37 ± 0.66 mm), and digital image assessments showed minimal alveolar ridge width changes (-0.32 to -0.7 mm) and gingival margin changes (-0.95 to -1.27 mm) from baseline to last visit. PROMs indicated very high patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The use of a digital ATT protocol with adjunctive use of EMD in closed-apex third molars demonstrated promising short-term high success and survival rates. Additionally, this type of therapy adequately preserves the dimensions of the alveolar ridge in the receptor site.

Effect of one-time placement of the definitive abutment versus multiple healing abutment disconnections and reconnections during the prosthetic phase on radiographic and clinical outcomes: A 12-month randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect on clinical and radiological outcomes of the one-abutment, one-time protocol (test) versus placing the definitive abutment on the day of functional loading after having disconnected and connected three times the healing abutment during the prosthetic phase (control). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients with 80 implants were randomly allocated to either the test or the control group. Changes in the radiographic marginal bone levels (MBLs), clinical outcomes, prosthetic-related outcomes, and patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) were assessed and compared 6 and 12 months after functional loading. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients with 74 implants were followed at 12 months. A statistically significant bone remodeling was observed in both groups following implant placement. MBLs were significantly greater in the control group at the 6- (-0.13 mm vs. -0.61 mm) and 12-month visits (-0.01 mm vs. -0.53 mm). Bone loss was significantly greater in the control group from surgery to 6 and 12 months and from loading to 6 and 12 months. The abutment height was significantly greater in the test group, however, there were no significant differences in the restorative angle. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences between groups for the measured clinical variables (probing depth, plaque, and bleeding index) and PROMs. CONCLUSIONS: Disconnecting and reconnecting the healing abutment was associated with significantly higher bone loss after 12 months, as compared to the placement of the definitive abutment at implant installation.

The effect of one-time abutment placement on clinical and radiographic outcomes: A 5-year randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term (5 years) clinical efficacy of the one-abutment one-time protocol (test) versus the standard of care by placing the definitive abutment on the day of the prosthetic delivery (control). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 39 subjects with 60 implants were randomly allocated to either the test or the control group. Changes in the radiographic interproximal bone levels (DIB), modified sulcus bleeding index, probing depth, modified plaque index, papilla fill (Jemt score), incidence of peri-implantitis and peri-implant mucositis as well as patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) were collected and compared at 1, 3 and 5 years. RESULTS: At 5 years, the control group showed a greater, although not statistically significant, change in mean DIB values (0.97 mm vs. 0.53 mm). Regarding the other clinical parameters evaluated, no statistically significant differences were observed between groups at any time point. At 5 years, 51% of the implants presented peri-implant mucositis (25.5% in the control and 23.5% in the test), and only one implant in the test group developed peri-implantitis. CONCLUSIONS: The connection and disconnection of healing abutments during the healing period was not associated with higher long-term bone loss. Clinical outcomes and PROMs were similar between groups.

Synergy of Regenerative Periodontal Surgery and Orthodontics Improves Quality of Life of Patients with Stage IV Periodontitis: 24-Month Outcomes of a Multicenter RCT.

In stage IV periodontitis patients with pathologic tooth migration (PTM), interdisciplinary treatment includes regenerative periodontal surgery (RPS) with an application of biomaterials and orthodontic therapy (OT) to restore function, esthetics and thereby quality of life (QoL). In a 24-month randomized trial we explored the synergy between regenerative medicine and biomechanical force application. The following methods were used: Forty-three patients had been randomized to a combined treatment comprising RPS and subsequent OT starting either 4 weeks (early OT) or 6 months (late OT) post-operatively. Clinical periodontal parameters and oral health-related QoL (GOHAI) were recorded up to 24 months. We obtained the following results: Mean clinical attachment gain (∆CAL ± SD) was significantly higher with early OT (5.96 ± 2.1 mm) versus late OT (4.65 ± 1.76 mm) (p = 0.034). Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was obtained in 91% of defects with early OT compared to 90% with late OT. GOHAI-scores decreased significantly from 26.1 ± 7.5 to 9.6 ± 4.7 (early OT) and 25.1 ± 7.1 to 12.7 ± 5.6 (late OT). Inconclusion, teeth severely compromised by intrabony defects and PTM can be treated successfully by RPS followed by early OT with the advantage of an overall reduced treatment time. As a result of the combined periodontal-orthodontic therapy, the oral health-related QoL of patients was significantly improved. Early stimulation of wound healing with orthodontic forces had a favorable impact on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery.

Complications in sinus lifting procedures: Classification and management.

Open and closed sinus lifting procedures are predictable methods to augment the bone needed for appropriate implant placement in the posterior maxilla in cases where available bone is limited. However, these techniques may give rise to complications and associated comorbidities. In the case of open sinus lifting, perforation of the Schneiderian membrane during osteotomy is the most common complication, with an incidence rate of around 20%-25%. Apart from those complications associated with oral surgery in general (such as swelling or hematoma), there are specific complications of open sinus lifting procedures that may arise less frequently (chronic rhinosinusitis, hemorrhage, or ostium blockage by overfilling) but which may nevertheless compromise the viability of the graft and/or the implants and cause substantial discomfort to the patient. Closed sinus lifting is a less invasive approach that allows transcrestal placement of the implants in cases where there is sufficient residual bone height. However, it may also be associated with specific complications, including membrane perforation, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, and implant displacement to the sinus cavity. New technologies have been proposed to reduce these complications and comorbidities associated with conventional sinus lifting procedures, such as the use of piezoelectric devices and hydraulic sinus lift or reamer burs. The evidence supporting their effectiveness and safety, however, is still lacking. A detailed medical history together with a thorough radiographic and clinical examination are essential prior to any kind of bone regenerative augmentation involving the maxillary sinus. Moreover, it is recommended to employ the most appropriate surgical technique for the specific characteristics of the case and, at the same time, accommodating the experience and skills of the surgeon.

Surgical approach combining implantoplasty and reconstructive therapy with locally delivered antibiotic in the treatment of peri-implantitis: A prospective clinical case series.

BACKGROUND: Nonsurgical treatment, resective surgery, reconstructive surgery, or combined approaches have been proposed for the treatment of peri-implantitis, with variable results. PURPOSE: To evaluate the 1-year clinical and radiographic outcomes following combined resective and reconstructive surgical treatment with topical piperacillin/tazobactam antibiotic in the management of peri-implantitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-three patients diagnosed with peri-implantitis were included. Surgical treatment consisted of implantoplasty of the supra-crestal component of the defect, the application of a topical antibiotic solution over the implant surface, and subsequent reconstruction of the intra-osseous component of the peri-implant defect. The primary outcome was disease resolution, defined as the absence of bleeding on probing (BoP) and/or suppuration on probing (SoP), a peri-implant pocket probing depth (PPD) ≤5 mm, and no bone loss >0.5 mm 1 year after surgery. Secondary outcomes included changes in BoP, PPD, SoP, and peri-implant marginal bone levels. One implant per patient was included in the analysis. RESULTS: The treatment success rate of the 43 dental implants included in the study was 86% at 1 year after surgery. Mean PPD and BoP decreased from 6.41 ± 2.11 mm and 100% at baseline to 3.19 ± 0.99 mm (p < 0.001) and 14% (p < 0.001) at 1 year, respectively. SoP was significantly reduced from 48.8% at baseline to 0% 1 year after surgery (p < 0.001). Radiographically, a mean defect fill of 2.64 ± 1.59 mm was recorded (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of a resective and reconstructive surgical approach together with locally delivered antibiotic achieved a high disease resolution rate after 1 year of follow-up and constitutes a viable option for the management of peri-implantitis.

Changes in peri-implant soft tissue levels following surgical treatment of peri-implantitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIM: To assess the changes in peri-implant soft tissue levels after the surgical treatment of peri-implantitis. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, cohort studies and case series, evaluating the changes in the position of the mucosal margin before and after surgical treatment of peri-implantitis, were searched. Secondary outcomes were changes in keratinized mucosa (KM), radiographic bone levels, probing depths (PD), plaque indices, bleeding on probing and patient perception. Meta-analyses were performed to determine weighted mean differences (WMD) or effects (WME). RESULTS: Twenty-six articles, reporting 20 investigations, were included. Reconstructive approaches yielded significantly less increase in mucosal recession, when compared to access flaps (n = 3, WMD = -1.35 mm, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-2.62; -0.07], p = .038). When comparing among reconstructive surgical interventions similar outcomes were observed irrespective of the use of a barrier membrane (n = 3, WMD = -0.01 mm, 95% CI [-0.15; 0.13], p = .917). When considering the effects over time, limited mucosal recession was observed after reconstructive procedures (n = 23, WME = 0.389 mm, 95% CI [0.204; 0.574]), p = .001), while increased recession was reported with either resective or access flap surgery (n = 6, WME = 1.21 mm, 95% CI [0.70; 1.72], p = <.001; and n = 3, WME = 0.95 mm, 95% CI [0.20; 2.10], p = .106; respectively). When resective and reconstructive approaches were combined the highest values on peri-implant recession were reported (n = 2, WME = 1.97 mm, 95% CI [0.81; 3.14], p < .001). Reconstructive surgical interventions were associated with greater radiographic bone level gains, while similar values were reported for PD reduction when comparing reconstructive, access and resective procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Resective surgical procedures were associated with significant post-surgical recession while minimal recession was observed in regenerative interventions.

The effect of timing of orthodontic therapy on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery in patients with stage IV periodontitis: A multicenter randomized trial.

AIM: To compare the outcomes after early (4 weeks post surgery) or late (6 months post surgery) orthodontic therapy (OT) following regenerative surgery of intra-bony defects (IDs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a multi-center, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial, 43 patients with stage IV periodontitis were randomized to receive either early (n = 23) or late OT (n = 20) following regenerative surgery of IDs. Primary outcome was change in clinical attachment level (CAL) in one target ID at 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes were changes of probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and frequency of pocket closure. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between groups could be observed for CAL gain (5.4 mm [±2.1 mm] for early; 4.5 mm [±1.7 mm] for late OT). PPD was reduced by 4.2 mm (±1.9 mm) in the early group and by 3.9 mm (±1.5 mm) in the late group (p > .05). Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was obtained in 91% of defects in early compared to 85% in late OT. CONCLUSION: In the inter-disciplinary treatment of periodontitis stage IV, OT can be initiated already 4 weeks after regenerative surgery of IDs with favourable results, thus reducing the overall treatment time.

Peri-implant radiographic bone level and associated factors in Spain.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate radiographic bone level (RxBL) at dental implants and its associated factors in Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed by a network of sentinel dentists from regions of Spain. RxBL was defined as the distance from the implant shoulder to the first clearly visible contact between the implant surface and the bone. Radiographic measurements were performed by two trained and experienced periodontists. Implant and patient data were also collected. Descriptive, bivariate, discriminative and multivariate analyses were done. RESULTS: A total of 49 sentinel dentists provided data 275 patients. Mean RxBL from 474 implants (5-13 years) was 1.87 mm (range: 0.00-13.17 mm). Statistically significant associations between RxBL and clinical output variables (bleeding on probing, oedema, plaque, probing depth, suppuration, keratinized tissue) were found. In the multiple regression analysis, statistically significant associations for RxBL were found for smoking habit, implant diameter, years of follow-up and type of prosthesis (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Peri-implant RxBL ranged from 0 to 13.17 mm. It was significantly associated with clinical output variables and with some potentially predictor variables, at patient- (smoking >10 cigarettes/day) and implant- (diameter, years of follow-up, Toronto bridge) levels.

Efficacy of a 0.03% chlorhexidine and 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride mouth rinse in reducing inflammation around the teeth and implants: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of a 0.03% chlorhexidine (CHX) and 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) mouth rinse, as an adjunct to professional plaque removal (PPR) and mechanical hygiene, in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis (PiM) and gingivitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients displaying PiM in, at least, one implant were included in this randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial. Subjects received PPR (at baseline and 6-month visits) and were instructed to rinse, twice daily, during 1 year with the tested mouth rinse or a placebo. Clinical and patient-reported outcomes were recorded at baseline and 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Fifty-four patients were included in the study and 46 attended the final visit. In the teeth and implants with inflammation, a higher reduction in BOP was observed in the test group. Statistically significant differences between groups were only observed in the lingual sites of the teeth with gingivitis (mean difference = 11.96%; 95% confidence interval [1.09; 22.83]; p = 0.03). Overall, compliance and satisfaction were good, even though staining were higher for the test group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The combined use of mechanical debridement with a 0.03% CHX and 0.05% CPC mouth rinse may have adjunctive benefits in the management of gingivitis, and it is associated with a higher degree of staining. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The control of gingivitis can be improved, after professional mechanical debridement, with toothbrushing and the supplementary use of a 0.03% CHX and 0.05% CPC mouth rinse at home. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03533166.

Long-term assessment of periodontal disease progression after surgical or non-surgical treatment: a systematic review.

The primary aim of this systematic review was to assess the evidence on periodontal disease progression after treatment in patients receiving supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) and to identify predictors of clinical attachment level (CAL) loss. A protocol was developed to answer the following focused question: In adult patients treated for periodontitis, what is the disease progression in terms of CAL loss after surgical or non-surgical treatment? Randomized controlled clinical trials, prospective cohort studies, and longitudinal observational human studies with a minimum of 5 years of follow-up after surgical or non-surgical treatment that reported CAL and probing depth changes were selected. Seventeen publications reporting data from 14 investigations were included. Data from 964 patients with a follow-up range of 5-15 years was evaluated. When the CAL at the latest follow-up was compared to the CAL after active periodontal therapy, 10 of the included studies reported an overall mean CAL loss of ≤0.5 mm, 3 studies reported a mean CAL loss of 0.5-1 mm, and 4 studies reported a mean CAL loss of >1 mm. Based on 7 publications, the percentage of sites showing a CAL loss of ≥2 mm varied from 3% to 20%, and a high percentage of sites with CAL loss was associated with poor oral hygiene, smoking, and poor compliance with SPT. The outcomes after periodontal therapy remained stable over time. Disease progression occurred in a reduced number of sites and patients, mostly associated with poor oral hygiene, poor compliance with SPT, and smoking.

Clinical effects of the adjunctive use of a 0.03% chlorhexidine and 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride mouth rinse in the management of peri-implant diseases: A randomized clinical trial.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of a 0.03% chlorhexidine and 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride mouth rinse, as an adjunct to professionally and patient-administered mechanical plaque removal, in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis (PiM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients displaying PiM in, at least, one implant were included in this randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial. Subjects received professional prophylaxis (baseline and 6 months) and were instructed to regular oral hygiene practices and to rinse, twice daily, with the test or placebo mouth rinses, during one year. Clinical, radiographic and microbiological outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Disease resolution was defined as absence of bleeding on probing (BOP). Data were analysed by repeated measures ANOVA, Student's t and chi-square tests. RESULTS: Fifty-four patients were included and 46 attended the final visit (22 in control and 24 in test group). In the test group, there was a 24.49% greater reduction in BOP at the buccal sites (95% confidence interval [3.65-45.34%]; p = 0.002) than in controls. About 58.3% of test implants and 50% controls showed healthy peri-implant tissues at final visit (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of the test mouth rinse demonstrated some adjunctive benefits in the treatment of PiM. Complete disease resolution could not be achieved in every case.

Prevalence and risk indicators of peri-implant diseases in Spain.

AIM: To evaluate the prevalence of peri-implant diseases in Spain, as well as the associated risk indicators. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study using a network of sentinel dentists, who randomly selected 10 patients with implants (placed, at least, 5 years before), which were clinically and radiographically evaluated. Case definitions were established for peri-implant mucositis [bleeding on probing (BOP) and no bone level ≥2 mm] and peri-implantitis (BOP plus bone level ≥2 mm). Potential predictor variables, at univariate and multivariate levels, were explored by means of binary logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 49 sentinel dentists provided complete data from 474 implants in 275 patients. At implant level, prevalences for peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis were 27% (95% confidence interval [CI] 22-32) and 20% (95% CI: 15-24), respectively, with 17% of implants (14-21) with bone level ≥2 mm without BOP. At patient level, prevalences were 27% (22-32), 24% (19-29) and 18% (13-22), respectively. In the multiple regression analysis, statistically significant associations for peri-implantitis (p < 0.10) were found for gender, peri-implant supportive therapy, implant location, diameter and surface, type of prosthesis and access to interproximal hygiene. CONCLUSIONS: In this representative subject sample across Spain, the prevalence of peri-implant diseases was high (51%).

Effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on peri-implant health or disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To review the dental literature in terms of soft tissue augmentation procedures and their influence on peri-implant health or disease in partially and fully edentulous patients. METHODS: A MEDLINE search from 1966 to 2016 was performed to identify controlled clinical studies comparing soft tissue grafting versus no soft tissue grafting (maintenance) or two types of soft tissue grafting procedures at implant sites. The soft tissue grafting procedures included either an increase of keratinized tissue or an increase of the thickness of the peri-implant mucosa. Studies reporting on the peri-implant tissue health, as assessed by bleeding or gingival indices, were included in the review. The search was complemented by an additional hand search of all selected full-text articles and reviews published between 2011 and 2016. The initial search yielded a total number of 2,823 studies. Eligible studies were selected based on the inclusion criteria (finally included: four studies on gain of keratinized tissue; six studies on gain of mucosal thickness) and quality assessments conducted. Meta-analyses were applied whenever possible. RESULTS: Soft tissue grafting procedures for gain of keratinized tissue resulted in a significantly greater improvement of gingival index values compared to maintenance groups (with or without keratinized tissue) [n = 2; WMD = 0.863; 95% CI (0.658; 1.067); p < .001]. For final marginal bone levels, statistically significant differences were calculated in favor of an apically positioned flap (APF) plus autogenous grafts versus all control treatments (APF alone; APF plus a collagen matrix; maintenance without intervention [with or without residual keratinized tissue]) [n = 4; WMD = -0.175 mm; 95% CI: (-0.313; -0.037); p = .013]. Soft tissue grafting procedures for gain of mucosal thickness did not result in significant improvements in bleeding indices over time, but in significantly less marginal bone loss over time [WMD = 0.110; 95% CI: 0.067; 0.154; p < .001] and a borderline significance for marginal bone levels at the study endpoints compared to sites without grafting. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this review, it was concluded that soft tissue grafting procedures result in more favorable peri-implant health: (i) for gain of keratinized mucosa using autogenous grafts with a greater improvement of bleeding indices and higher marginal bone levels; (ii) for gain of mucosal thickness using autogenous grafts with significantly less marginal bone loss.

Effects of modified abutment characteristics on peri-implant soft tissue health: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the impact of the abutment characteristics on peri-implant tissue health and to identify the most suitable material and surface characteristics. METHODS: A protocol was developed aimed to answer the following focused question: "Which is the effect of the modification of the abutment design in regard to the maintenance of the peri-implant soft tissue health?" Further subanalysis aimed to investigate the impact of the abutment material, macroscopic design, surface topography and surface manipulation. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a follow-up of at least 6 months after implant loading were considered as inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses were performed whenever possible. RESULTS: Nineteen final publications from thirteen investigations were included. The results from the meta-analysis indicated that zirconia abutments (Zi) experienced less increase in BOP values over time [n = 3; WMD = -26.96; 95% CI (-45.00; -8.92); p = .003] and less plaque accumulation [n = 1; MD = -20.00; 95% CI (-41.47; 1.47); p = .068] when compared with titanium abutments (Ti). Bone loss was influenced by the method of abutment decontamination [n = 1; MD = -0.44; 95% CI (-0.65; -0.23); p < .001]. The rest of the studied outcomes did not show statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: The macroscopic design, the surface topography and the manipulation of the implant abutment did not have a significant influence on peri-implant inflammation. In contrast, the abutment material demonstrated increased BOP values over time for Ti when compared to Zi abutments.

Surgical Treatment of a Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma and Reconstruction with a Porcine Collagen Matrix: A Case Report.

A 35-year-old woman was referred to the Department of Oral Medicine and Orofacial Surgery after several recurrences of an ossifying fibroma (OF) that affected the free and attached gingiva of the maxillary right central incisor. Surgery was performed with a complete excision of the lesion together with the surrounding healthy tissue up to the bone. To guide the healing of the anterior esthetic framework and the excised tissues, a porcine collagen matrix as an alternative to connective tissue graft was used. After an 18-month follow-up, the lesion had not recurred and keratinized gingiva had formed around the area.

Randomized controlled clinical trial comparing two dental implants with different neck configurations.

BACKGROUND: Peri-implant bone levels can vary according to the implant neck macro-design and the implant-abutment interface. PURPOSE: To compare the changes in soft and hard tissues when using a one-piece implant with a machined collar (TG) versus a two-piece implant with a progressive platform widening and a platform switching connection (SP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Partially edentulous patients willing to receive one or two implants in the posterior maxilla or mandible were randomized to the control (TG) or to the test group (SP). Final prostheses were delivered after 12 months. Radiographic measurements of interproximal bone levels (primary outcome) were assessed at implant loading and 1-year postloading. Clinical, patient related outcomes and adverse events were assessed at loading and after 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Sixty-one implants were placed in 47 patients, 37 patients (18 in the TG group and 19 in the SP group), and 47 implants (23 TG and 24 SP) completed the 24-months follow up. At the patient level, a significantly greater bone resorption from baseline to implant loading was observed in the SP group (-0.42 ± 0.45 vs -0.07 ± 0.45; P = .001*), while from loading to the final visit, the TG group had significantly greater bone loss than the SP group (-0.26 ± 0.22 vs -0.11 ± 0.2; P = .020*). At 24 months after surgery, there were no significant differences between both groups (control: 0.33 ± 0.49 vs test: 0.53 ± 0.53; P = .230). Similarly, no significant differences were observed for the secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Both types of implant reported high survival rates and similar bone level changes, clinical parameters, and patient related outcomes after 12 months of loading.

The effect of one-time abutment placement on interproximal bone levels and peri-implant soft tissues: a prospective randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of placing the definitive abutment at the time of implant placement versus at a later stage, on the soft and hard tissue changes around dental implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Platform-switched implants were placed in the posterior maxilla or mandible of partial edentulous patients and they were randomized to receive the definitive abutment at the moment of implant placement, or 6-12 weeks later. Final prostheses were delivered 2-4 weeks later. Radiographic assessment of vertical bone level changes (primary outcome), clinical status of peri-implant tissues, changes in soft tissues margin, papilla filling, patient-related outcomes and adverse events were assessed 6 and 12 months after loading. RESULTS: 60 implants were placed in 40 patients, replacing single or multiple absent teeth. One implant was lost 1 week after insertion (overall survival rate: 98.3%). A statistically significant greater bone resorption from surgery to 6 months post-loading was observed for those implants subjected to abutment change (control group: -1.24 ± 0.79 mm; test group: -0.61 ± 0.40 mm; P = 0.028). Periodontal clinical parameters and patient-related outcomes, however, did not demonstrate significant differences between groups at any time point. A significant increase in papilla height was observed from loading to 12 months in all implants (control group: 1.17 ± 1.47 mm; test group: 0.98 ± 0.89 mm) and a slight but not significant coronal migration of the gingival margin. CONCLUSIONS: The connection and disconnection of healing abutments is associated with significantly increased bone loss during the healing period between implant placement and 6 months post-loading, when compared to one-time abutment placement.

Principles in prevention of periodontal diseases: Consensus report of group 1 of the 11th European Workshop on Periodontology on effective prevention of periodontal and peri-implant diseases.

AIMS: In spite of the remarkable success of current preventive efforts, periodontitis remains one of the most prevalent diseases of mankind. The objective of this workshop was to review critical scientific evidence and develop recommendations to improve: (i) plaque control at the individual and population level (oral hygiene), (ii) control of risk factors, and (iii) delivery of preventive professional interventions. METHODS: Discussions were informed by four systematic reviews covering aspects of professional mechanical plaque control, behavioural change interventions to improve self-performed oral hygiene and to control risk factors, and assessment of the risk profile of the individual patient. Recommendations were developed and graded using a modification of the GRADE system using evidence from the systematic reviews and expert opinion. RESULTS: Key messages included: (i) an appropriate periodontal diagnosis is needed before submission of individuals to professional preventive measures and determines the selection of the type of preventive care; (ii) preventive measures are not sufficient for treatment of periodontitis; (iii) repeated and individualized oral hygiene instruction and professional mechanical plaque (and calculus) removal are important components of preventive programs; (iv) behavioural interventions to improve individual oral hygiene need to set specific Goals, incorporate Planning and Self monitoring (GPS approach); (v) brief interventions for risk factor control are key components of primary and secondary periodontal prevention; (vi) the Ask, Advise, Refer (AAR) approach is the minimum standard to be used in dental settings for all subjects consuming tobacco; (vii) validated periodontal risk assessment tools stratify patients in terms of risk of disease progression and tooth loss. CONCLUSIONS: Consensus was reached on specific recommendations for the public, individual dental patients and oral health care professionals with regard to best action to improve efficacy of primary and secondary preventive measures. Some have implications for public health officials, payers and educators.

Clinical efficacy of subgingival debridement with adjunctive erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser treatment in patients with chronic periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser application as an adjunct to subgingival debridement in the treatment of chronic periodontitis (CP) is controversial. This study assesses the efficacy of combining full-mouth subgingival debridement with Er:YAG laser application in the treatment of patients with CP. METHODS: In this 12-month, single-masked, parallel-group clinical trial, 40 patients with moderate CP were selected and randomly assigned to a test group (one session of full-mouth ultrasonic subgingival debridement followed 1 week later by Er:YAG application in sites with initial probing depths [PDs] of ≥4.5 mm) and a control group (two sessions of ultrasonic debridement within 1 week). The main outcome variable was change in PD; the secondary outcomes were change in clinical attachment level and proportion of sites with bleeding on probing. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months. Data were analyzed as intention to treat using analysis of variance to assess intergroup differences. RESULTS: Both treatments resulted in significant clinical improvements. The test group achieved, in comparison with the control, a significantly lower percentage of sites with PD ≥4.5 mm (17.44% versus 22.83%, respectively; P = 0.004) and a tendency for a lower percentage of sites with PD ≥4.5 mm and bleeding on probing (9.78% versus 12.69%; P = 0.052). CONCLUSION: This limited added clinical effect may justify the use of a protocol combining full-mouth ultrasonic debridement with laser therapy in the treatment of initial moderate CP.