A comparative analysis of peri-implant sulcular microflora in delayed versus immediately placed dental implants

The timing of dental implant placement may influence early microbial colonization and long-term peri-implant health. This prospective cohort study compared sulcular microflora in immediate (n=30) versus delayed (n=30) single-tooth implants over 12 months using 16S rRNA sequencing. Immediate implants showed higher levels of commensal genera at 3 months, whereas delayed implants exhibited increased colonization by Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia at 6 months (p<0.05). By 12 months, microbial differences diminished, with convergence of pathogenic species between groups. Delayed placement appears more prone to early dysbiosis, underscoring the need for rigorous plaque control and monitoring.