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A retrospective analysis of 125 single molar crowns supported by two implants: long-term follow-up from 3 to 12 years.

Authors :
Wolfinger GJ
Balshi TJ
Wulc DA
Balshi SF
Source :
The International journal of oral & maxillofacial implants [Int J Oral Maxillofac Implants] 2011 Jan-Feb; Vol. 26 (1), pp. 148-53.
Publication Year :
2011

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze retrospectively the survival rate of implants used in pairs to support a single molar crown over a long-term follow-up period and to compare the efficacy of this technique to other existing methods of treatment.<br />Materials and Methods: The charts and radiographs of 105 patients who each received two implants to support a screw-retained single molar were examined according to the following criteria: age, gender, location of implant, time of loading (delayed versus immediate), opposing dentition, and the existence of adjacent implants.<br />Results: Patients with follow-up between 3 and 12 years were selected to illustrate the long-term outcomes of the two-implant replacement procedure. Two hundred fifty implants were placed in 125 molar sites in 105 patients. Five of the 250 implants failed, resulting in a cumulative survival rate of 98.0%. Seven of 125 restorations experienced porcelain fracture (5.6%), seven prosthetic screws loosened (5.6%), and one abutment screw loosened (< 1.0%).<br />Discussion: The placement of two implants to support a screw-retained single molar successfully reduces rotational forces that create stress on the implant. A single regular-diameter or even a wide-diameter implant is susceptible to these forces, which may lead to fatigue over the long term.<br />Conclusions: Two implants for the replacement of a single molar represent an effective method that provides a high survival rate over a long-term follow-up period. This approach produced a cumulative survival rate higher than that usually seen in studies of single implants used for molar replacement. The two implant-supported molar crown showed fewer complications than single implant-supported molar crowns.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0882-2786
Volume :
26
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
The International journal of oral & maxillofacial implants
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
21365050