Impact of Platform Switching on Peri-Implant Bone Remodeling around Short Implants in the Posterior Region, 1-Year Results from a Split-Mouth Clinical Trial

Aim: To assess the effect of platform switching on peri-implant bone remodeling around short implants (8.5mm) placed in the resorbed posterior mandibular and maxillary region of partially edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: Seventeen patients with one or more missing teeth at both sides in the posterior region were, according to a split-mouth design, randomly assigned to be treated with a platform-matched (control) implant on the one side and a platform-switched implant (test) on the other side. A total of 62 short implants (8.5mm) with a dual-acid etched surface with nanometer-sized calcium phosphate particles was placed. Follow-up visits were conducted one month and one year after placing the implant crown. Outcome measures were interproximal bone level changes, implant survival and clinical parameters. Results: One year after loading, peri-implant bone remodeling around test implants (0.530.54mm) was significant less than around control implants (0.85 +/- 0.65mm; p=.003). With regard to implant survival and clinical parameters no significant differences were observed between test and control implants. Conclusions: This study suggested that peri-implant bone remodeling is affected by platform switching. One year after loading, interproximal bone levels were better maintained at implants restored according to the platform switching concept.