Biologic outcome of single-implant restorations as tooth replacements: a long-term follow-up study.

BACKGROUND

The replacement of a single tooth or several teeth by means of single-implant restorations is an increasingly used method that needs long-term validation.

PURPOSE: The goal of this study was to evaluate the outcome of single-implant restorations by means of fixed restorations and to define the prognosis through marginal bone level estimations.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

From November 1986 to June 1998, 270 Brånemark implants (215 in the upper jaw) were installed in 219 patients (106 males). Both anterior and posterior sites were involved. Of the 263 single restorations, 28 were placed in private dental offices. The patients were followed until June 1999.

RESULTS

Twelve implants failed before or at abutment connection or within 6 months afterward. Only four implants failed later. The cumulative success rates were 93% for the implants and 96.5% for the restorations over a period of 11 years. The marginal bone loss during the first 6 months after abutment connection reached 0.71 mm and then dropped to 0.036 mm annually over a period of 10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-implant restorations (Brånemark System) are a reliable treatment with a good long-term prognosis. Failures were concentrated during the healing period and early loading phase.