A 1-year prospective study on Co-Axis implants immediately loaded with a full ceramic crown.

INTRODUCTION

The Co-Axis implant (Southern Implants, Irene, South Africa) has a 12-degree angle in the implant neck to overcome angulation problems.

AIM: To examine bone loss, peri-implant health, and aesthetical outcome after 1-year follow-up.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Fifteen single implants were placed in 14 patients in the premaxilla and immediately loaded with a screw-retained full ceramic crown. Periapical radiographs and standardized photographs were taken to determine bone loss and soft tissue changes. Plaque and bleeding levels were assessed. Patients' satisfaction was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 questionnaire.

RESULTS

After 1 year, all implants survived and mean bone loss was 1.20 mm, with no significant changes after 6 months. Plaque levels were low and no significant changes were observed. Bleeding levels decreased during the initial 3 months, but were constant thereafter. Before final torqueing was performed after 6 months, four cases of screw loosening occurred. Also, one crown had a piece of porcelain chipped off. Patients reported an overall increase in well-being. A mean midfacial recession of 0.37 mm was observed. The mesial papilla showed a slight increase of 0.14 mm, while the distal papilla decreased 0.35 mm.

CONCLUSION

With 100% survival and stable bone levels after 6 months, the Co-Axis implant showed a good clinical outcome when immediately loaded. The use of a full ceramic crown as a first and final restoration resulted in a good aesthetic outcome with few changes in papilla fill, although midfacial soft tissue was stable only after 1 year.