Fixed restorations supported by Morse-taper connection implants: a retrospective clinical study with 10-20years of follow-up.

Abstract

Rehabilitation with implant-supported fixed prostheses is a predictable modality to restore lost function and esthetics; however, fixed restorations are subject to biological and prosthetic complications, which may represent a problem in the long-term. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term survival and complication rates of fixed restorations supported by Morse-taper connection implants. Between January 1992 and December 2002, 49 patients (age range 22-70years), were included in this study. The restorations involved 58 fixed reconstructions (15 single crowns [SCS], 29 partial prostheses, 14 full-arches), supported by 178 Morse-taper connection implants with a follow-up ranging from 10 to 20years. Outcomes such as implant survival, marginal bone loss, frequency of biological and prosthetic complications as well as "complication-free" survival of restorations were investigated. The 20-year overall cumulative implant survival was 97.2%. A few biological (3.4%) and prosthetic (10.3%) complications were reported. The "complication-free" survival rate of restorations was 85.5%. No statistically significant differences were observed among patients' gender, age, smoking or parafunctional habits, prosthesis site and type. Satisfactory "complication-free" survival rates can be achieved after 20years for fixed restorations supported by Morse-taper connection implants, with minimal marginal bone loss and complications.