Single crown restorations supported by 6-mm implants in the resorbed posterior mandible: A five-year prospective case series.

Abstract

PurposeTo assess clinical performance of single restorations supported by 6‐mm long implants in the posterior mandible after 5 years in function.Materials and MethodsTwenty‐one consecutive patients with the absence of premolars or molars in the posterior mandible and an estimated bone volume of at least 6 mm in width and an estimated height of 8 mm between the top of the ridge and alveolar nerve were included. Each patient received one or more 6‐mm implants. Custom‐made titanium abutments with cemented zirconia‐based porcelain crowns were placed after a 3‐month osseointegration period. Data of clinical examinations and radiographs were assessed at placement of the restoration and 12 and 60 months thereafter. The patients answered a questionnaire to score the satisfaction before treatment and after 12 and 60 months with the restoration in function.ResultsImplant survival was 100%. Five‐years' mean marginal bone loss was 0.14 mm (SD: 0.4). Indices scores for plaque, calculus, gingiva, and bleeding were low as well as mean pocket‐probing depth. Patients' satisfaction was high.ConclusionFive‐year follow‐up data of this limited case series study revealed that 6‐mm dental implants inserted in the resorbed posterior mandible provide a solid basis for single tooth restoration.