Peri-implant Soft Tissue Phenotype and Early Marginal Bone Loss After Dental Implant Placement

This prospective observational cohort study was conducted at the Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Ankara University. Participants requiring implant-supported rehabilitation in posterior edentulous regions were prospectively enrolled and received bone-level dental implants according to a standardized surgical protocol. No participant was assigned to a treatment or exposure group for research purposes.

Peri-implant soft tissue dimensions were clinically assessed at the time of implant placement. Keratinized mucosa width was measured as the distance from the mucogingival junction to the mid-crestal point of the edentulous ridge. Supracrestal tissue height was determined following flap elevation as the vertical distance from the alveolar crest to the free gingival margin. Mucosal thickness was measured horizontally at the mid-buccal aspect using an endodontic file with a silicone stop.

Standardized intraoral periapical radiographs were obtained at implant placement and at the three-month follow-up using a parallel technique with individualized positioning. Radiographic measurements were calibrated according to the known implant length. Marginal bone level was determined on the mesial and distal aspects of each implant relative to the implant platform, and changes between baseline and the three-month follow-up were used to assess early marginal bone remodeling. Radiographic measurements were performed by a calibrated examiner blinded to the clinical soft tissue measurements.

The study was designed to examine the associations between peri-implant soft tissue dimensions and early marginal bone changes during healing after implant placement. Statistical analyses evaluated these relationships using both univariable and multivariable approaches while accounting for the distribution and structure of the collected data.

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 20 and 60 years. Good general health. Need for dental implant treatment in a posterior edentulous region. Adequate native bone volume for implant placement without bone augmentation. At least 3 months since tooth extraction at the planned implant site. Presence of stable opposing teeth. Adequate oral hygiene. Ability to attend follow-up visits

Exclusion criteria

• Heavy smoking. Uncontrolled systemic disease. Pregnancy. Use of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications within the previous 3 months.

Bruxism. Poor oral hygiene. Need for bone augmentation at the implant site.