Clinical and radiographic performance of implant restorations with different angulated screw channel abutments in the esthetic area: A retrospective exploratory cohort study with a mean follow-up of 24 months.
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of implant restorations with two different angulated screw channel abutments in the esthetic area. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with implant restorations using angulated screw channel abutments (AS or ASC group) were encompassed. Sixty-seven restorations (34 in AS and 33 in ASC) in 54 patients (27 in AS and 27 in ASC) were analyzed. Survival rates, mechanical complications, and biological parameters were recorded. Esthetic outcomes were assessed using the Pink and White Esthetic Score (PES/WES) and patient satisfaction via Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Radiographic analysis evaluated marginal bone loss (MBL), buccal bone thickness (BBT), and prosthesis design. RESULTS No implant loss occurred during a mean follow-up of 23.79 ± 7.63 months. The AS group showed severe mechanical complications requiring remaking (11.8% vs. 0%) and a numerically higher mechanical complication rate (26.5% vs. 15.2%); however, neither difference was statistically significant (P > 0.05). The AS group also had significantly greater PD (P = 0.041) and BOP% (P = 0.047). Both groups achieved favorable esthetics and satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Both abutment types are feasible for the anterior maxilla, providing good esthetics, satisfaction, and bone stability. The AS group experienced severe mechanical complications, which may warrant closer clinical attention. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The ASC abutment showed favorable numeric trends in mechanical complications and peri‑implant soft tissue health. If using the AS abutment, closer attention to the restoration's cervical region is advised from our observations.