Evaluation of 316 narrow diameter implants followed for 5-10 years: a clinical and radiographic retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES

Narrow diameter implants (NDIs; diameter >3.75 mm) are useful in replacement of missing incisor teeth and when the bucco-lingual width of the edentulous crest is insufficient. The present study evaluated the success and survival rates, peri-implant parameters, mechanical and prosthetic post-loading complications of NDIs followed over a 10-year period.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three hundred and sixteen NDIs were inserted into 139 patients and restored with 120 prostheses. Clinical and radiographic assessment data were collected during recall visits. Implant success (SC), cumulative survival rate (CSR), marginal bone loss (MBL), peri-implant conditions and prosthetic complications were assessed. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier survival curves with the log-rank test and life table analysis were used to evaluate the outcome of NDIs within comparable subgroups. MBL and peri-implant parameters measured annually were further analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time was 9.1 years (range: 60-124 months). Twelve implants were lost in the healing phase and two during function. The mean MBL in the maxilla and the mandible was 1.32 +/- 0.13 and 1.28 +/- 0.3 mm, respectively, after 10 years. SC and CSR were 91.4% and 92.3%, respectively, after 124 months. Smoking and posterior localization were associated with an increased risk of failure. Cement loosening (16.8%) was the most common prosthetic complication. No implants were fractured.

CONCLUSIONS

NDIs can be used with confidence where a regular diameter implant is not suitable. MBL around NDIs occurred predominantly within 2 years of loading and was minimal thereafter. Further studies are required to clarify the possible risks associated with smoking and posterior placement.