Reconstructive Therapy of Peri-Implantitis and Without Guided Bone Regeneration- A 15 Years Comparative Study

Author(s): Dr. Abdullah Al Mamun Khan, Dr. Nasrin Parvin Zahan

Background: Peri-implantitis is a challenging complication that compromises the long-term success of dental implants. Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) has emerged as a promising reconstructive therapy, though long-term comparative data remain limited. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and long-term implant survival between reconstructive therapy with and without GBR in peri-implantitis cases over a 15-year period.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted from 2009 to 2024 at two centers in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 132 patients (76 males, 56 females; aged 30–70 years) diagnosed with peri-implantitis were included. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either non-regenerative therapy (n = 81) or regenerative therapy with GBR (n = 51). Exclusion criteria included uncontrolled systemic disease, heavy smoking, pregnancy, prior head/neck radiation, and poor follow-up compliance. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated over a 12-month period, with implant survival assessed up to 15 years.

Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). At 12 months, the GBR group showed significantly greater probing depth reduction (3.6 ± 0.9 mm vs. 2.1 ± 0.8 mm; p < 0.001) and bone gain (2.9 ± 0.7 mm vs. 0.8 ± 0.5 mm; p < 0.001). Implant survival at 15 years was higher in the GBR group (82.4%) compared to the non-GBR group (69.1%). Post-operative complications were minimal in both groups.

Conclusion: GBR-based reconstructive therapy provides superior clinical and radiographic outcomes and enhances long-term implant survival compared to non-regenerative approaches in the management of peri-implantitis.