The Journal of Oral Implantology has released the findings of a 10-year study evaluating the success of implant-supported, fixed complete dentures.

According to the Journal, the aim of the study was to evaluate the predictability of the immediate loading protocol with fast bone regeneration (FBR)-coated implants placed in postextractive sites in the maxilla, considering the success rate after at least 5 years of follow-up.

The clinical and radiographic results were evaluated in terms of soft tissue conditions and crestal bone loss values. 158 dental implants were inserted following dental extraction in 70 consecutively operated patients.

Each implant was immediately prosthesized. Data was collected before surgical planning, at the time of insertion, and after 3 and 5 years of occlusal loading.

The study, “Long-Term Results of Immediately Loaded Fast Bone Regeneration–Coated Implants Placed in Fresh Extraction Sites in the Upper Jaw” revealed that certain characteristics of both the patient and the oral surgeon performing the procedure determined the success rate of the dental implant procedures.

Two dental patient risk factors increased the likelihood of dental implant failure: bruxism and diabetes. Implant failure occurred in 29% of the patients with bruxizm and over 28% of the patients with diabetes. Higher implant failures also occurred with newer oral surgeons who had performed 50 implant procedures or less. Interestingly, the effect of smoking was not a risk factor in the study.

The use of immediately loaded FBR-coated implants in fresh extraction sockets is shown to be a predictable technique if implants are inserted in selected cases and positioned with great care, following thorough preoperative analysis. (American Academy of Implant Dentistry).

The study reported a 90% success rate for implant-supported fixed dentures.

To review the report see: American Academy of Implant Dentistry