Evaluation of success rate and marginal bone loss in dental implants subjected to early loading with a follow up of one year

Abstract

Dental implants (also known as oral or endosseous implants are considered to be an important contribution to dentistry as they have revolutionized the way by which missing teeth are replaced with a high success rate. Implant success is evaluated by various implant health parameters along with patient satisfaction. : The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the success rate and marginal bone loss in dental implants subjected to early loading versus conventional loading and also to find out the clinical viability of early loading in day-to-day practice, especially in the Armed Forces.This study was done with a split mouth design.Fifteen patients of either sex in the mean age of 22 to 52 years with bilateral missing first mandibular molar, fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected and divided into two groups. In Group 1, subjected to early loading, (fifteen sites) the provisional prostheses were fabricated and cemented in occlusal contact with the opposing dentition within 8 weeks of implant placement. In Group 2 (fifteen sites) 15 implants were to be subjected to conventional loading after six months.Two implants were lost in group 1 and one implant in group 2 during the study. The difference in Periotest values of Group-1 and Group-2 was not significant (p value > 0.005). The Peri crestal bone level in both (early loading and conventional loading) groups were within the acceptable limits and difference between the groups was not significant (p value >0.005).Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that early loading is a viable treatment modality and can be routinely employed for rehabilitation of partially edentulous arches. Meticulous diagnosis and treatment planning, precise clinical and laboratory protocols are critical in long term success of prostheses.