Pages 473-481, Language: EnglishHolt, Robert L. / Rosenberg, Marvin M. / Zinser, Phillip J. / Ganeles, JeffreyIt has become widely accepted that modern titanium dental implants are successful and predictable. However, there is bone loss in relation to any interface (microgap) that occurs between the implant parts when the microgap is in proximity or apical to the osseous crest. The principle of biologic width may be responsible for such bone remodeling in an apical manner. A new, biologically derived implant design that conceptually may minimize bone remodeling and promote better bone and overlying gingival contours and stability is suggested. The parabolic occlusal platform of this design is in harmony with the biologic width of the soft tissue around the circumference of the implant when the proximal bone is occlusal to the facial and lingual bone. Preservation of proximal bone for an isolated implant, and between implants, will help support and maintain physiologic and cosmetic gingival contours and papillae. This is of particular importance in esthetic areas, where interproximal bone loss between implants or between an implant and an adjacent tooth may cause a reduction in gingival papilla height.
