Immunohistochemical Evaluation of Oral Tissues in Contact with Dental Implants

Introduction: Dental implants are a popular choice in oral restoration, and their long-term success is based mainly on good osseointegration and healthy peri-implant soft tissues. Immunohistochemical analysis is crucial for understanding cellular and molecular responses in determining implant stability and the progression of disease. Objectives: To assess the immunohistochemical properties of oral tissues in contact with dental implants, focusing on inflammatory markers and connective tissue organisation within patients attending the Foundation University College of Dentistry, Islamabad. Material and Methods: A Prospective observational study of 40 patients with implants placed at least six months prior was conducted at Foundation University College of Dentistry, Islamabad in the duration from November, 2023 to April, 2024. A biopsy of the peri-implant tissue samples was obtained, processed histopathologically, and stained with IHC to detect CD68, IL-1 beta, and collagen type I. Data on correlations between clinical peri-implant health and immunohistochemical results were recorded. Results: Histopathologic examination revealed mild to severe inflammatory infiltration in peri-implant tissues, with significant differences across clinical statuses (p = 0.041, Kruskal-Wallis test). CD68 and IL-1β expression were significantly upregulated in inflamed tissues, particularly in peri-implant mucositis and early peri-implantitis (p < 0.05, Mann-Whitney U test, 95% CI [0.12–0.72]), while collagen type I expression was significantly elevated in clinically healthy sites (p = 0.008, 95% CI [0.35–0.82], Kruskal-Wallis test). Conclusion: The use of immunohistochemical analysis is a valuable method for evaluating the health of peri-implant tissues. Higher collagen levels indicate stable disease, while higher CD68 and IL-1β imply active disease at an early stage.