[Preliminary clinical study of microimplants in the restoration of edentulous jaws].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if magnetic- attached overdenture supported by microimplants of 2.5 mm in diameter was able to function properly.

METHODS

Fourteen microimplants were placed in 4 patients. Implants were exposed 3 months later and magnetic abutments were connected directly. X-ray was taken during the 3 year follow-up to examine marginal bone level. Peri-implant soft tissue was also checked. Denture retention, chewing stability and overall satisfaction with the microimplants retained overdenture were evaluated.

RESULTS

All of the 14 microimplants achieved initial primary stability without infection or any other postoperative complications. No implant was lost during the follow-up period. Only one magnetic abutment fractured one year after restoration and was replaced. X-ray showed highly stable marginal bone level around the microimplants. The patients were satisfied with the restoration.

CONCLUSIONS

The microimplants retained overdenture leads to a significant improvement of function despite of the small dimensions of these implants. In particular for elder patients with severe residual ridge resorption, this treatment represents a less invasive alternative compared to conventional implant systems.