Repeated dis/re-connection of implant abutment caused bone loss around implant fixtures due to the new formation of biologic width of the mucosal-implant barrier. The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate whether the repeated dis/re-connection of implant abutment cause bone loss clinically and the effect of cleansing methods on a bone loss during the early healing period.

A total 50 implants were installed in 20 patients and repeated dis/re-connection of abutment was performed at the time of surgery and once per week for 12 weeks. 0.9% normal saline solution as group1 and 0.1% chlorhexidine solution as group 2 was used to clean abutments. All patients had radiographs taken at the placement of implant and 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. The data for bone loss around implant were analyzed.

The marginal bone loss at 12 weeks were 1.28±0.51mm, 1.32±0.57mm in the mesial and distal sides in group1, 1.94±0.75mm, 1.81±0.84mm in group 2, respectively. In view of marginal bone loss, there was not a significant statistical difference between groups.

Repeated dis/re-connection of implant abutment may not cause marginal bone loss around implant fixture although limited samples and short-term observation period. In spite of more bone loss in group 2, there was no statistical significant difference between groups. In context of those results, the clinical significance of the repeated dis/re-connection of implant abutment and the cleansing method of abutments is debatable when it comes to marginal bone loss during early healing period.