Metagenome of the Peri-implant Sulcus in Health and Disease – A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

A BSTRACT The oral microbiome plays a pivotal role in maintaining peri-implant health and the development of implant-related diseases. Metagenomic studies have emerged as powerful tools for unraveling the complex microbial communities associated with peri-implant sites. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of microbial profiles in peri-implant health and diseases through metagenomic analyses. A systematic search was conducted across major scientific databases, yielding a total of 152 relevant studies. After applying strict inclusion criteria and extracting data on study design, participant characteristics, sampling techniques, sequencing platforms, and microbial composition, a final selection of articles was included in the analysis. Meta-analytical techniques were employed to assess variations in microbial diversity, composition, and abundance between healthy peri-implant sites and those affected by peri-implant diseases such as peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. Furthermore, the impact of various factors, including implant type, surface characteristics, host factors, and environmental influences, on the peri-implant microbiome was explored. Our findings elucidate distinct microbial signatures associated with different peri-implant conditions, highlighting the potential of metagenomic approaches in diagnostics, risk assessment, and therapeutic interventions for implant-related diseases. Moreover, this review underscores the need for standardized methodologies and larger-scale studies to establish robust associations and facilitate the translation of metagenomic findings into clinical practice. By shedding light on the intricate interplay between the oral microbiome and peri-implant health, this study aims to contribute to the advancement of personalized and precision medicine approaches in implant dentistry.