Distribution and intensity of periimplant inflammatory cells in relation of the location of the implant-abutment interface

Distribution and intensity of periimplant inflammatory cells in relation of the location of the implant-abutment interface
Implant Dentistry: Volume 12(1) March 2003 p 98
Broggini, Nina
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.
Abstract:
The presence of an implant-abutment interface at the level of alveolar bone seems to be associated with the accumulation of inflammatory cells in adjacent soft tissues. The present study was designed to evaluate the relationship between interface position and the distribution/intensity of periimplant inflammation. In foxhound dogs, two-piece, submerged implants were positioned with interfaces either coronal to (1.0 mm above) or apical to (1.0 mm below) the alveolar bone crest (BC). After 3 months, implants were connected with the corresponding abutments and subsequently loosened/tightened at 4, 8, and 10 weeks to simulate prosthetic procedures. Six months after implant placement, specimens were obtained and assessed histomorphometrically. The distribution pattern of periimplant inflammatory cells was similar for all implants (ie, a peak of inflammatory cells occurred at a location immediately coronal to the implant-abutment interface with a decrease toward either bone or gingival epithelium); however, apically placed implants demonstrated a greater overall inflammatory cell accumulation at all periimplant locations (see Table). The distribution pattern of neutrophils (PMN) paralleled that of total inflammatory cells. Additionally, bone loss was progressively increased in association with periimplant inflammation.