FACTORS AFFECTING PERI-IMPLANT SOFT TISSUE RECESSION AND INFLAMMATION FOLLOWING DENTAL IMPLANTATION

Abstract

The long-term clinical success of dental implant therapy depends not only on successful osseointegration but also on the morphological and biological stability of the peri-implant soft tissues. The development of soft tissue recession and inflammatory changes is influenced by several factors, including the soft tissue phenotype, width of keratinized mucosa, three-dimensional implant position, hard-tissue anatomy, timing of implant placement, and soft tissue augmentation procedures. The aim of this study was to analyze the major factors associated with peri-implant soft tissue recession and inflammation following dental implant placement based on contemporary scientific evidence. The literature indicates that a thin soft tissue phenotype, inadequate keratinized mucosa, unfavorable implant positioning, and, in selected clinical situations, immediate implant placement may negatively affect soft tissue stability. In contrast, adequate soft tissue thickness, sufficient keratinized mucosa, optimal three-dimensional implant positioning, and soft tissue augmentation performed when clinically indicated may contribute to maintaining peri-implant tissue stability. Current evidence supports a comprehensive assessment of these factors rather than evaluating them individually, taking into account their potential interactions. Individualized risk assessment before treatment and selection of an appropriate treatment strategy are important for reducing the risk of peri-implant soft tissue complications.