No abstract

Forty-eight months after restoration, switching and traditional platform implants had similar histological peri-implant soft tissue features, despite different bone level changes detected radiographically and published in a previous parent study. The present study seems to confirm platform switching as a safe prosthetic concept leading to better maintenance of peri-implant bone levels. However, further histological studies are required to longitudinally confirm the present data.

The 3D photogrammetry system can provide reliable facial measurements. The method is relatively fast and requires only inexpensive equipment. It is simple to use for private practice, research, or other practice.

During three Italian Special Olympics National Games, 365 athletes were screened. Dental and medical conditions and demographic data were recorded. The athletes were divided into two groups: those with Down syndrome (DS) and those without DS but who had intellectual disabilities (non-DS). Most of the subjects were in good systemic health. Total DMFt was 10.3 (SD 5.8; D=1.3; M=6.1; F=2.8). Decayed and filled teeth were significantly more frequent in athletes who did not have DS compared to those with DS. No significant differences were found between the two groups in the number of subjects with filled, sealed, or traumatized teeth. Athletes with DS and without DS who participated in the Italian Special Olympics had a similar oral status, which was better than Italian persons who were institutionalized and who had an intellectual disability.

After prolonged exposure of abutments in the oral cavity, the configuration of the implant abutment interface does not seem to affect the inflammatory cellular and molecular pattern responsible for bone loss.