SINGLE IMPLANTS SUPPORTING A 3-UNIT CANTILEVERED MAXILLARY PROSTHESIS: A PROSPECTIVE CASE SERIES WITH 2-YEAR FOLLOW-UP

OBJECTIVES. To evaluate the clinical outcome of a purpose-designed implant, placed in the upper premolar position of distally edentulous jaws, supporting a 3-unit cantilevered screw-retained prosthesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Sixteen patients received, in the upper premolar area, a single implant specifically designed to support a 3-unit distally cantilevered screw-retained prosthesis. Implants were loaded after 3 to 5 months of submerged healing, depending on bone density. Eight prostheses were made of metal-composite and eight of fibre-reinforced composite at the discretion of the dentist. Outcome measures, evaluated by an independent assessor, were: prosthesis and implant failure, complications and peri-implant marginal bone level changes.

RESULTS. No patient dropped out. No implant or prosthesis failed. Three (19%) patients were affected by complications. After 2 years the mean marginal bone loss was 0.45 mm.

CONCLUSIONS. These short-term results suggest that a 3-unit distally cantilevered prostheses can be supported in the maxilla by a single, purpose-designed dental implant up to 2 years after loading. Proper studies with follow-ups of about 10 years are needed to ascertain the long-term prognosis of this treatment option.