Peri-implant tissue behavior around non-titanium material: Experimental study in dogs

The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of using non-titanium abutments for better establishment of peri-implant biological width and to assess the stability of the soft tissue. Forty-eight tapered dental titanium implants with internal connection of 3.5 mm in diameter and 10 mm length were implanted in post extraction alveoli of 6 dogs. Twenty-four abutments made in a reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) formed the test group, and 24 titanium abutments, the control group. The groups were randomized. Histological, histomorphometric, ISQ and radiological analyses were performed. Greatest differences (control group vs. test group) were found at PM-Lc (Mucosa to lingual bone contact) (2.91 ± 0.03 vs. 3.71 ± 0.18), and to PM Lingual-IS (2.65 ± 0.43 vs. 3.57 ± 0.38). Reinforced PEEK constitutes an effective alternative to conventional titanium abutments, given its high rate of biocompatibility, preservation of bone height and soft tissue stability.