Changes of Microbial Community in Treated Peri-implantitis Sites: An Experimental Study in Beagle Dogs.

OBJECTIVE To investigate the changes of the bacterial community in the oral environment of beagle dogs to gain insights on the possible causes of failed therapy in peri-implantitis. METHODS Beagles were used as models for experimental peri-implantitis. Samples from peri-implant soft tissue (supramargin and submargin), ligature and contaminated surface of peri-implantitis sites were collected and analysed by sequencing the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. RESULTS The residual microbial community from the curettes-treated implant surface contained a variety of microorganisms, including periodontal pathogens, which showed no changes in their composition and structure. CONCLUSION It is possible that the residual bacterial community remained unchanged and this was the cause of recurrent episodes of inflammation.