Study Addresses Peri-Implant Mucositis with Innovative Treatment

SPAIN: Researchers from Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia; and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, have come together to investigate the resolution of peri-implant mucositis (PIM). 

The study, titled “Resolution of peri-implant mucositis following standard treatment: A prospective split-mouth study,” delves into the effectiveness of standard anti-infective mechanical treatment (AIMT) for PIM and the diagnostic potential of bone markers.

PIM: A Precursor to Peri-Implantitis

Peri-implantitis poses a growing public health concern, impacting patient perception, treatment costs, and systemic health. With an estimated prevalence of up to 30%, the lack of predictive treatment options and high recurrence rates within the first two years post-treatment are significant challenges. The study focuses on peri-implant mucositis, a precursor to peri-implantitis, seeking to understand its progression and effective treatment strategies.

Study Finds Similar Peri-Implant Disease Incidence in Cement- and Screw-Retained Implant-Supported Prostheses

Despite the increasing prevalence of peri-implantitis, standard diagnosis in implantology relies on clinical parameters, often compromised by factors such as implantation techniques and individual bone remodeling profiles. Biomarkers, recommended by leading dental organizations, are proposed as a valuable addition to diagnostic protocols.

Unraveling the Complexity of PIM

Peri-implant mucositis, defined as an inflammatory disease of soft peri-implant tissues, presents diagnostic challenges due to its reversible course and unclear conversion patterns to peri-implantitis. The study, utilizing machine learning algorithms, identifies clusters of PIM patients exhibiting excessive levels of pro-osteoclastogenic markers, shedding light on the complexities of this condition.

The research team investigates the diagnostic capacity of biomarkers, including RANKL, OPG, and IGFBP2, as surrogate endpoints and predictors. Previous studies have highlighted RANKL’s specificity in discriminating peri-implant conditions, enhancing clinical diagnosis accuracy. IGFBP-2 emerges as a promising predictor of bone resorption and a potential surrogate endpoint for treatment assessment.

While AIMT proves effective in reducing clinical and biological indicators of PIM, complete clinical resolution is achieved in only 30% of cases. The study prompts a reevaluation of standard treatment protocols and emphasizes the need for more predictive diagnostic methods in implantology. Understanding the complexities of PIM progression and treatment responsiveness is crucial for advancing implant care strategies.

Minimising Peri-implant Complications through Optimal Management of the Oral Microbiome