The effect of a convergent transmucosal neck on soft tissues and radiographic outcomes: a 1-year follow-up randomized controlled trial

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to evaluate peri-implant marginal bone levels (MBLs) and soft tissue dimension changes 1 year after loading. Patients in the control group received bone-level implants, whereas in the test group, tissue-level implants with a convergent transmucosal neck were used.Material and methodsMBLs were calculated by measuring the distance from the implant shoulder to the first visible bone-to-implant contact using standardized periapical digital radiographs. Baseline (day of loading) and follow-up digital models obtained with an intraoral scanner were used to quantify the changes in the peri-implant soft tissue dimensions with a best-fit algorithm.ResultsThe difference between final and baseline MBLs showed a mean bone loss of 0.16 ± 0.01 mm in the test group (n = 15) and 0.45 ± 0.09 mm in the control group (n = 14) (p > 0.05). Soft tissue contour at the level of the gingival margin (GM) increased by 1.96 ± 2.69 mm in the test group and 0.65 ± 0.42 mm in the control group (p = 0.167). Both groups showed a coronal displacement of the gingival margin with no significant differences among them.ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated peri-implant hard and soft tissues stability at both implant designs with no significant differences 12 months after loading.Clinical relevanceThere is still insufficient scientific evidence to demonstrate the role and advantages of the convergent transmucosal neck on the behavior of the peri-implant soft and hard tissues stability compared to a straight neck in bone-level implants 12 months after loading.