Which Patient-Related Factors Influence the Outcome of Telescopic-Retained Removable Implant-Supported Dental Prostheses in Edentulous Patients?

PURPOSE: To survey the clinical performance of telescopic-retained removable implant-supported dental prostheses (TR-RISDPs) in edentulous patients, as well as incidental maintenance measures and technical complications.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this retrospective analysis, the former presence of oral cancer, prosthesis location (maxilla or mandible), and participation in a follow-up program were analyzed as possible factors with an influence on survival and maintenance treatments of the TR-RISDPs and dental implants using Kaplan-Meier estimates.

RESULTS

A total of 86 TR-RISDPs (mean follow-up: 4.62 ± 3.24 years; maximum 13.8 years) and 465 implants (mean follow-up: 5.67 ± 3.59 years; maximum 16.5 years) were observed. Six (6.9%) of the TR-RISDPs had to be remade, and 11 (2.3%) implants failed. Regular attendance in the follow-up program showed significantly higher survival times and fewer maintenance treatments for the TRRISDPs (P < .05). Implants in patients with former oral cancer showed significantly lower survival times (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

TR-RISDPs in edentulous patients show excellent clinical outcomes. Regular check-ups are decisive for success.