Implant versus tooth-implant supported prostheses in the posterior maxilla: a 2-year report

When implants are used for restoration of a jaw with a residual dentition, the possibility of combining implants with natural abutments may be considered. In a longitudinal comparative study, 26 patients (15 women & 11 men, age 49-84 years) with residual anterior dentitions were treated with two different designs of fixed partial dentures bilaterally in the posterior maxilla. On one side the reconstruction was supported by implants only, while on the contralateral side an implant and a tooth in combination were used. The patients were followed at intervals of 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after loading of the implants. 95 implants were placed, of which 11 non-loaded. A total of 10 implants failed, 7 prior to loading and three within the first three months of service (88.0+/-SE 6.7% cumulative survival for tested implants after two years' follow-up). There was no difference in failure rate for the implants in the two different prosthesis designs. The total mean loss of marginal bone height close to the implants was within acceptable standards, but was more pronounced at the implants not combined with teeth. The results indicate a correlation between the prosthesis design and the loss of marginal bone.