Immediate Loading of Unsplinted Implant Retained Mandibular Overdenture: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study.

Abstract

This clinical study aimed to clinically and radiographically compare the implant success rate and peri-implant tissue response between immediate and delayed loading protocols for unsplinted implant retained mandibular overdentures. Twenty patients were enrolled to participate in this study. Each subject was randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: Test Group patients implants (n=10), which were immediately loaded and Control Group patients implants (n=10), which were conventionally loaded. Locator™ abutments were torqued to 15 Ncm at delivery. Attachments were picked up intra-orally immediately after implant placement for test group and at 3 months for control group and 3 lb retention inserts were placed. Marginal bone levels based on CBCT fixed reference points were recorded at baseline and 12 months. Modified Plaque Index, Gingival Index, and Implant Stability Quotients were recorded at baseline, 3 months and 12 months. After 12 months, implant success rate was 100% in both groups. Marginal bone levels, keratinized mucosa, modified plaque index, and gingival index were significantly different among the groups at 3 and 12 months intervals, while no significant differences were found in Implant Stability Quotients between the groups. The fact that implant success rate was 100% in both treatment groups suggests that, within the limitations of this study, immediate loading protocol for unsplinted implant retained mandibular complete overdenture is as predictable, safe, and successful as the delayed loading protocol. Implementing the immediate loading protocol for mandibular implant retained overdentures could shorten treatment time, which could lead to better patient s satisfaction.