Platform design

Abstract

Implant platform is defined as the portion of the implant on which the abutment rests. Platform-switching design uses an abutment that is smaller in diameter than the outer edge of the implant neck. This particular design has been found to be associated with reduced marginal bone loss. It remains to be established if this favorable outcome occurs in all the clinical situations and with which extent. Possible factors that seem to contribute to the preservation of marginal bone in platform-switched implants are the shifting of the microbial leakage far from the bone or of the abutmentplatform micromotion. Other cofactors may also contribute. Scalloped implant design is a new platform solution indicated in the esthetic zones, but although promising, more clinical studies are needed to confirm its validity.