Internally Submerged, Tapered, Bone-level Dental Implants in the Anterior Esthetic Region

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Aesthetics is a crucial consideration in the anterior region, alongside dental implant survival and marginal bone loss (MBL). Bone-level implants are advantageous in the esthetic zone as they create a natural emergence profile with the use of customized abutments. This study aimed to assess the esthetic outcomes of internally submerged, tapered, bone-level dental implants and to evaluate associated alveolar bone changes. METHODS: Patients received Luna implants (Shinhung, Seoul, Korea) from 2012 to 2020. MBL was measured immediately after surgery and at 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year follow-ups. Pink and White Esthetic Scores (PES/WES) were evaluated after final restoration and at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups using standardized photographs. RESULTS: Seventy-eight patients (37 males, 41 females) with a mean age of 73.42 years met the study's inclusion criteria. At the 1-year follow-up, the mean MBL was 0.39 ± 0.74 mm on the mesial aspect and -0.09 ± 0.97 mm on the distal aspect. A statistically significant difference in MBL on the mesial aspect was observed between immediate functional loading and the 12-month follow-up ( P = 0.029). All implants achieved PES/WES scores of 6 or higher, meeting the threshold for clinical acceptance. CONCLUSIONS: Within the study's limitations, Luna implants demonstrated satisfactory esthetic outcomes and stable bone levels. The results support their use as a viable option for implant placement in the anterior esthetic zone, ensuring both aesthetic and functional success.

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