The Implant Supracrestal Complex - International Journal of Prosthodontics

This paper was recently published in the International Journal of Prosthodontics. It is the result of countless discussions among the authors and many other colleagues and our starting point was that we need a new paradigm, where the peri implant tissues are defined as one variable of a system, where human tissues, mechanical components and bacteria interact towards a new organ. We therefore chose the term Implant Supracrestal Complex, in order to reflect the close interdependence of the peri-implant soft tissues to the prosthetic components in the constant presence of bacteria. This paper is in essence a review of the current evidence, interpreted in the light of the authors' experience. Our aspiration with this new paradigm is to bring the focus more on the big picture. To encourage the study of soft tissue interventions not as independent procedures, but in connection to the prosthetic design and componentry.