This evaluation assessed the influence of a new implant shoulder design on cleanability using a now established in-vitro study model. Eight test (Botticelli, Di Meliora AG, Basel, Switzerland) and eight control implants (T3 Osseotite, ZimVie, Winterthur, Switzerland), were embedded in standardized defects in simulated bone. The implant surfaces were painted to be visually distinguishable and debrided with ultrasonic instruments (US) and an air powder waterjet device (AIR). Uncleaned implants served as positive controls. After the standardized cleaning, the implants were photographed and divided into three zones (upper marginal shoulder zone (A); lower marginal shoulder zone (B); fully threaded sub-shoulder zone (C)), and analyzed with an image processing software. On test implants, AIR was almost 100% efficacious compared to 80-90% with US, in both upper zones (A/B). In control implants, results of both AIR and US were almost 100% in zone A, but only 55-75% in zone B. In both implants, AIR showed statistically significant higher efficacy than US (P<0.05). Within the limitations of the present in-vitro model, a new macro-structured micro-rough dental implant shoulder with a new coronal vertical groove design shows similar cleanability in comparison to a smooth and machined surface.
Keywords: debridement; dental implant; dental implant-abutment design; infection; peri-implantitis.