Effect Of Periodontal Biotype On Implant Success And Peri-Implantitis Risk: Integrating The Roles Of Dental Assistants And Operating Room Technicians

Abstract

Dental implant therapy has become a cornerstone of modern oral rehabilitation, offering functional and aesthetic solutions for tooth loss. However, the success of implants and the prevention of peri-implant disease depend on multiple patient- and procedure-related factors, including the periodontal biotype — a critical determinant of soft tissue thickness, contour, and resilience. Thin periodontal biotypes are more susceptible to soft tissue recession, bone loss, and peri-implantitis compared to thick biotypes. At the same time, the increasingly team-based nature of implantology means that not only dentists and periodontists but also dental assistants and operating room (OR) technicians play key roles in ensuring optimal outcomes.

This review explores the effect of periodontal biotype on implant success and peri-implantitis risk, while integrating the often-overlooked contributions of dental assistants and OR technicians in the perioperative pathway. Dental assistants are pivotal in patient education, chairside management, sterilization, and maintenance of soft-tissue health, while OR technicians ensure sterile surgical environments, instrument readiness, and adherence to aseptic protocols. By linking clinical evidence on biotype with a multidisciplinary workflow model, this review highlights how leveraging the complementary skills of all team members can reduce peri-implant complications and improve long-term outcomes.