What technique is referred to as 'platform switching' in dental implants?

The technique referred to as 'platform switching' in dental implants involves using a narrower abutment on a wider implant. This strategy is designed to help minimize bone loss around the implant. By positioning the abutment more centrally over the wider implant body, platform switching effectively reduces the amount of crestal bone that may be lost over time due to stress distribution around the implant.

Bone loss is a common concern in implant dentistry, especially in areas where there is minimal bone width. By opting for a narrower abutment, the stress is redirected away from the bone crest, which can help in maintaining bone density and promoting a healthier environment for the implant. This technique also aids in the management of soft tissue aesthetics by allowing for better contouring and adaptation around the abutment, ultimately benefiting the long-term success of the implant.

Using a wider abutment on a narrower implant is not the correct interpretation of platform switching; instead, the focus is on reducing the risk of bone loss through appropriate abutment sizing relative to the implant diameter. The other options suggest changes in implant types or locations, which do not apply to the concept of platform switching in this context.