Latest research from EFP accredited programmes

Title: Association of crown emergence angle and profile with dental plaque and inflammation at dental implants.

Authors: Pelekos G, Chin B, Wy X, Fok MR, Shi J, Tonetti MS.

Published in: Clin Oral Implants Res. 2023 Oct;34(10):1047-1057. doi: 10.1111/clr.14134. 

Background

The shape of implant restorations is essential for both function and aesthetics. However, it may also play a crucial role in maintaining peri-implant tissue health by influencing plaque accumulation and inflammation.

Study Objective: Linking Crown Emergence and Profile to Periodontal Health

This study aimed to examine how the emergence angle, profile, and mucosal tunnel depth of a single screw-retained implant crown impacted marginal dental plaque accumulation, tissue inflammation, and probing depths.

How the Study Was Conducted

A total of 122 subjects were clinically examined (46.7% female, 68.9% never smokers, 77% had treated periodontitis, 52.5% participated in regular supportive peri-implant care).

Digital scans were used to measure the emergence angles, profile, and depth of the mucosal tunnel on different aspects of the crown.

Key Findings: Shape Matters

• Largest emergence profile angles were found on the vestibular aspect in 74.6% of cases, reaching a maximum of 61.7°.
• Convex profiles were observed in 59% of cases.
• Strong correlations were found between the platform-level emergence angle, profile, and mucosal tunnel depth with:
  • Plaque accumulation (p < 0.01)
  • Bleeding on probing (p < 0.02)

Why This Matters for Implant Planning

The study highlighted that even subtle variations in crown shape can significantly influence biofilm accumulation and mucosal inflammation. These findings underscored the importance of precise 3D implant planning and positioning to optimize peri-implant health and longevity

Meet the post-graduate student from Hong Kong University

Dr. Bonnie Chin graduated in 2018 from the University of Hong Kong with a bachelor’s degree in dentistry. She further pursued her studies in the Master of Dental Surgery in Periodontology in the University of Hong Kong and graduated with distinction in 2022. In the same year, she obtained the Certificate of Completion of Specialized Training in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry from the European Federation of Periodontology and the Membership in Periodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Since 2023, she has been admitted to the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong as a member in periodontology and is currently actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate clinical training as a Clinical Practitioner at the University of Hong Kong.