Detection of predominant subgingival periopathogens around submerged and non-submerged hydroxy-apatite implants

Abstract

Background: The microbiota associated with healthy peri-implant tissues has been studied in many cases. However, gram-negative anaerobic rods may also be found in small numbers and in low proportions around the endosseous dental implants. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate colonization of the peri-implant sulcus around two different types of implants by periopathogenic microbiota in a healthy patient. Materials and Methods: A patient with a healthy periodontium was selected. One hydroxy-apatite coated one-stage (AQB) implant was implanted at the site of the missing upper Right maxillary 1 st molar; the two units two-stage (PLATON) were implanted at the sites of the missing 1 st and 2 nd molars in the Left maxillary region. Saliva samples were collected from the peri-implant sulcus using paper points every 3 months for 9 months after implantation and fixation of porcelain crowns. Real-Time Polymerase Reaction (RT-PCR-Invader method) was used to detect periodontal pathogens. Results: Salivary periodontal pathogens were checked prior to implantation and Tannerella forsythia (0.06%) was detected. No periodontal pathogens were observed at 3 months. T. forsythia (0.06%) was detected at 6 months around the AQB implant; it was not detected in the PLATON implant. At 9 months, periopathogens increased in number around both types of implants; there was a major difference in numbers of Fusobacterium nucleatum (10.81%), and T. forsythia (0.057%) around the submerged and non-submerged implant systems. Conclusions: Submerged implants with screw-retained superstructures are more vulnerable to pathogenic microflora colonization than non-submerged implants.