A 3‐year longitudinal prospective study assessing microbial profile and clinical outcomes of single‐unit cement‐retained implant restorations: Zirconia versus titanium abutments
Thalisson Saymo de Oliveira Silva, Alice Ramos de Freitas, Rubens Ferreira de Albuquerque, Vinícius Pedrazzi, Ricardo Faria Ribeiro, Cássio do Nascimento
Abstract
PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological and clinical outcomes of implant-supported restorations on zirconia or titanium abutments after 3 years in function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty two-part dental implants were placed in 20 healthy individuals in need of single-tooth replacement. Ceramic-based reconstructions were cemented in either zirconia or titanium abutments. Clinical, radiographic, and microbiological outcomes were examined at implant loading and then yearly up to 3 years post-loading. RESULTS: Cumulative survival/success implant rates were 95% after 3 years. Mean total marginal bone loss was 0.76 ± 0.21 mm for zirconia and 0.99 ± 0.41 mm for titanium, with no significant differences (P > .05). Overall, titanium and zirconia abutments presented similar values of probing depth, gingival recession, and bleeding on probing over time (P < .05). Microbial profile of implants restored with titanium or zirconia is quite similar to that found in the remaining teeth. CONCLUSIONS: Zirconia and titanium presented different microbial profile and genome counts. Clinical findings for both zirconia and titanium abutments were similar and consistent with a healthy condition, reflecting a high survival rate and low bone loss. Microbiota did not impact the clinical outcomes after 3 years of function.