Possible Association between the Quantity of Peri-implant Crevicular Fluid, Clinical Indices, and the Dimensions of Endosseous Implants

ABSTRACT Objectives The objectives of this clinical observational study are to measure peri-implant crevicular fluid volume based on dental implant diameter and length, and to evaluate the possible relationship between peri-implant crevicular fluid/gingival crevicular fluid volumes and clinical periodontal indices. Material and Methods The information about length and diameter of dental implants was noted. Clinical indices (probing depth, plaque index, gingival bleeding time index, and gingival index) were recorded. Peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF)/gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) volumes were measured from 4 sites (mesial, buccal, distal, and lingual/palatal) of each dental implant including its one or more equivalent natural tooth/teeth. Results One-hundred-sixty-one loaded dental implants and 221 natural teeth of 101 patients were evaluated. The length of dental implant had no effect on PICF volume (P > 0.05). However, PICF volumes of narrow (< 3.5 mm) and wide (> 4.5 mm) diameter implants were higher than standard diameter implants (≥ 3.5 mm, and ≤ 4.5 mm) (P < 0.05). PICF and GCF volumes of areas with peri-implant/periodontal diseases were significantly higher than healthy areas (P < 0.05). PICF and GCF volumes showed positive correlations with clinical indices (P < 0.05). Conclusions In accordance with the results of the present study, the implant diameter, not the implant length, affects peri-implant crevicular fluid volume.