Evaluation of Crestal Bone Loss in Flapped vs Flapless Implant Placement Technique: A Randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the flapless and flap techniques in terms of crestal bone level. Materials and methods This prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted involving a total of 60 patients aged 18–55 years, who required replacement of a single missing tooth in the posterior mandibular region. Participants were randomly divided into two equal groups (n = 30 each), Group A (Flapless technique) wherein Implant placement was done using a soft tissue punch Group B (Flapped technique) wherein Implant placement was done following full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap elevation Results All 60 patients completed the 6-month follow-up period without any reported complications. The implant survival rate was 100% in both groups. Group A showed a statistically significant increase in crestal bone loss between 3 and 6 months (P = 0.011). Group B also demonstrated significant bone loss from 3 to 6 months (P = 0.001). Conclusion Flapless technique of dental implant placement has significantly less crestal bone loss compared to the flap technique. Therefore, flapless implant surgery can be considered as a promising alternative to conventional flap.