Abstract

A dental implant prosthesis enables natural muscle function and promotes bone stimulation, maintaining its shape and size similarly to a healthy, natural tooth. An important criterion for the success of dental implants is the presence of good amount and quality of bone around the implants. Bone preservation should always be considered while planning for implant placement. However, bone loss around the implant can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, causing secondary peri-implant disease, which can result in a decline in bone support. This, in turn, can cause an excessive occlusal load, ultimately leading to implant failure. To mitigate this issue, a technique known as platform switching is employed in implant dentistry to conserve the alveolar bone surrounding dental implants. This approach involves using a narrower restorative abutment on a wider implant, rather than using abutments of matching diameters. By adopting this method, the lifespan of dental implants can be significantly extended. This article highlights the significance of platform switching in enhancing the longevity and overall success of dental implant procedures.