# Impact of Open Proximal Contacts on Peri‐Implant Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

## TL;DR

This study finds that open proximal contacts in dental implants may increase the risk of peri-implant diseases, though results are not always statistically significant.

## Contribution

The study systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the impact of open proximal contacts on peri-implant tissue changes.

## Key findings

- Open proximal contacts showed greater but non-significant marginal bone changes.
- Open contacts were linked to a higher incidence of peri-implant mucositis.
- Results suggest open contacts may increase probing pocket depths.

## Abstract

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the impact of open proximal contacts on peri‐implant tissue changes, specifically marginal bone levels, probing pocket depth, and the incidence of peri‐implant diseases.

Electronic databases were searched to identify non‐randomized observational studies comparing open and closed proximal contacts. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool and data were analyzed with a statistical software.

Out of 276 studies initially identified, five met the inclusion criteria, involving 4882 dental implants. Meta‐analysis indicated that open proximal contacts were associated with greater, but not statistically significant, marginal bone changes (mean difference (MD) 0.07; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.09 to 0.24; p = 0.38); probing pocket depths (MD 0.11; 95% CI −0.29 to 0.51; p = 0.59) and a higher incidence of peri‐implantitis (relative risk (RR) 1.63; 95% CI 0.88–3.02; p = 0.12) compared to closed contacts. Open proximal contact was associated with a significant increase in incidence of peri‐implant mucositis (RR 1.74; 95% CI 1.06–2.86; p = 0.03).

Open proximal contacts are associated with increased probing pocket depths and marginal bone changes and could be a risk indicator for peri‐implant mucositis. Further research is needed to assess long‐term effects and to develop preventive measures.