Experience in Using Implants With a Sloped Platform Edge

Purpose: Comparative analysis of the use of implants with modified neck configuration and standard implants with additional bone grafting. Materials and methods: 34 patients with partial tooth loss combined with a horizontal defect of the alveolar bone were included in the study. In group 1 (n = 15) implants with sloped platform edge were placed, in group 2 (n = 19) implants of standard design with directed bone regeneration (GBR) were placed. The primary end point of the study was the level of vertical bone resorption in the implant neck area 6 months after the operation. Secondary endpoints were: pain (VAS) and oedema scores, width of attached gingiva, number of analgesics taken, quality of life and health (OHIP-14). Results: The level of vertical resorption after 6 months in patients in group 1 was 0.04 ± 0.04mm mesially and 0.06 ± 0.05mm distally, in patients in group 2 mesially 1.06 ± 0.35mm and distally 1.00 ± 0.39mm. The use of implants with sloped edge of the platform was characterized by lower pain intensity the first 7 days after surgery (p < 0,001), lower severity of collateral edema (p < 0,001), lower consumption of NSAIDs on 1, 3, 5, 7 days (p = 0,002, <0,001, <0,001 and 0,008, respectively), lower total OHIP-14 score (p = 0,047) on 7 days. After 4 months, the width of attached keratinized gingiva was 3.6 (3–3.8) mm in patients in group 1 and 2 (1.5–2.1) mm in group 2. Conclusion: The use of implants with a sloped platform edge is characterized by a lower level of vertical resorption and allows for a more comfortable postoperative period.