Background: Prevention of crestal bone loss by inward shifting of the implant abutment junction has gained popularity among implant manufactures over the last few years. However, effect of stepping down the size of implant platform on crestal bone loss is not known. Objective of this review article is to discuss the concept of platform switching and shifting. Purpose: The purpose of this article is to discuss the literature dealing with the platform switching and platform shifting concept. Materials and Methods: Thorough literature search using PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE, Web of Sciences, AMED (Ovid) was done. Results: Literature search revealed studies involving concepts of platform switching and platform shifting. Conclusion: Effect of platform switching on crestal bone loss is very well documented as compared to platform shifting.
