Evaluation of a Novel Thickened Implant Design: from in vitro to a Split-Mouth,
Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Dr. Carlotta Cacciò, Prof. Marco Tallarico
University of Sassari, Italy
Abstract
Implant-supported prostheses represent an effective and predictable solution for the
replacement of missing teeth. Their success largely depends on the ability of the
surrounding bone to integrate and maintain the stability of the implant, a process
commonly referred to as osseointegration. Over the years, numerous implant systems
differing in surface characteristics, materials, design features, and implant-abutment
connections have been developed and clinically assessed.
Marginal bone loss remains one of the main factors affecting the long-term stability of
dental implants. Its etiology is multifactorial and may include surgical factors,
inflammatory conditions, mechanical overload, microgaps at the implant–abutment
interface, and implant design characteristics. The type of implant-abutment connection
has been repeatedly highlighted as a key element influencing implant survival and peri-
implant tissue stability, with microleakage and micromovements often associated with
biological and mechanical complications.
To address these limitations, manufacturers have proposed various connection designs.
Among these, conical internal connections have shown favorable medium-term
outcomes. More recently, new configurations combining internal geometries with
optimized taper angles have been introduced with the aim of enhancing mechanical
stability, reducing microleakage, and improving the overall performance of implant-
supported rehabilitations.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the main clinical factors influencing marginal bone loss and understand
how to prevent them in daily practice. - Evaluate the clinical differences between the most common implant–abutment
connections, understanding how they may affect stability, biological
complications, and prosthetic outcomes. - Apply clinical criteria to select the most appropriate implant system, integrating
scientific evidence and design features to improve the outcomes of implant-
supported rehabilitations.