The immediate functional loading of Brånemark single tooth implants : an 18-month pilot follow-up study

Aim of the study

To evaluate the replacement of single teeth by implants fitted and loaded at the time of extraction, compared with a control group.

Materials and methods

An experimental group of 14 patients (14 implants) and a control group of 8 patients (8 implants) were studied. The implants replaced anterior maxillary and mandibular teeth (18 and 4 respectively). The patients, who were not bruxists and had balanced occlusions, were followed up for 18 months. In the experimental group, temporary crowns were fitted 24 hours after insertion of the implants, whereas in the control group the classic 2-stage protocol was adopted.

Results

In the experimental group, two implants were lost (at 3 and 5 months). The other 12 implants and the 8 controls remained stable during the period of observation. A radiographic assessment after 12 months showed a mean loss of bone support of approximately 0,1 mm in the two groups.

Conclusion

Additional controlled, multicentre studies are needed before recommending the immediate loading of implants. The authors emphasise the special setting of this study (single tooth replacements, mostly for maxillary teeth).

Commentary

Too few implants were studied to enable extrapolation of the results. Nonetheless, taking into account the failures in this study, one must have reservations concerning the placement and immediate loading of 13-15 mm long, single tooth implants in the anterior part of the maxilla.