Systematic Review of Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Oral Rehabilitation on Dental Implants with a Tapered Compared to a Non-Tapered Implant Design

Consensus Statement 1: The evidence shows that both tapered and non-tapered implants demonstrate satisfactory performance with respect to marginal bone levels at 3 years

The evidence shows that both tapered and non-tapered implants demonstrate satisfactory performance with respect to marginal bone levels at 3 years. This statement is based on the evidence of three RCTs, (245 patients with 388 implants).

Consensus Statement 2: There is insufficient evidence to conclude if tapered compared with non-tapered implants demonstrate similar clinical and patient-reported outcomes

There is currently insufficient evidence to conclude if tapered compared with non-tapered implants demonstrate similar clinical and patient-reported outcomes. This statement is based on the evidence from three RCTs, (245 patients with 388 implants).

1) Is there a recommendation for any specific implant design with regard to taper?

Based on Consensus statements 1 and 2, both tapered and non-tapered implants can be used according to the operator’s preference.

2) Are there particular clinical situations in which any specific implant design with regard to taper is preferred?

Tapered implants can be considered in clinical situations to avoid injuring anatomical structures or causing apical fenestrations. Appropriate professional judgment and clinical decision-making must include a comprehensive diagnosis of the patient’s jawbone anatomy, bone quality and quantity, and osteotomy protocol.

3) Is utilizing a tapered implant an effective strategy to increase insertion torque?

In situations where increased insertion torque is desired, tapered implants may be considered. The shape of the dental implant is only one contributing factor to achieve high insertion torque; however, the clinical significance of implant shape on long-term results is unclear.