Complete Fixed Prostheses Over Implants in Patients With Oral Epidermolysis Bullosa

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of placing fixed prostheses over endosseous implants in edentulous patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Three cases of dental implants with fixed prostheses are presented. All 3 patients had marked oral involvement, with devastating alterations in the soft and hard tissues. The use of fixed prostheses avoids contact between the prosthesis itself and the oral mucosa, thus preventing the formation of blisters. A total of 27 implants (15 maxillary and 12 mandibular) were placed. One maxillary implant failed; the rest integrated successfully, allowing crown placement. The average follow-up after implant placement was 3 years (range, 1 to 5 years). Our findings suggest that endosseous implants are not contraindicated and can be placed successfully to improve these patients' quality of life. Implants can provide support for complete fixed prosthesis restoration in patients with epidermolysis bullosa. This procedure keeps the prosthesis from rubbing on the oral mucosa and prevents the development of ulcerations, improving mastication and esthetics.