Occlusal considerations for implant restorations in the partially edentulous patient

The type and frequency of complications associated with dental implants has changed during the past decade. As more-successful rates of osseointegration have resulted from improved surgical protocols and materials, the major complications have become restorative-related rather than surgery-related. Recent studies indicate that restorative complications with implant-retained restorations occur at rates of 10 percent to 77 percent over a three-year period. Many of the restorative complications can be minimized with careful treatment planning and coordination of care. However, because implants lack the stress release associated with a periodontal ligament, impact loading to restorative materials and the crestal bone remains potentially more damaging with implant-supported restorations. This article discusses the biomechanical implications of implant restorations and outlines occlusal considerations designed to decrease restorative complications.