Implants in fresh extraction sockets: a prospective 5-year follow-up clinical study

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the 5-year clinical outcome of the 'immediate implants.'

One week after the cementation of the prosthesis, a clinical baseline examination was carried out. Clinical measurements were performed of the following: plaque, mucositis, probing pocket depth, and soft tissue position. The height of the keratinized mucosa was measured at the buccal/lingual aspects. Standardized intra-oral radiographs were taken. The marginal level of bone to implant contact [radiographic (Rx) bone level] was measured, and Rx bone level change over time was evaluated. The clinical/radiographic measurements were repeated on a yearly basis. The subjects were enrolled in a carefully supervised oral hygiene program.

It was demonstrated that 'immediate implants' that were loaded after 5-7 months had a high success rate. During the 5-year interval, no implant was lost, and the mean Rx bone level at the implants was maintained or even improved. The plaque and mucositis scores were low (<20%) at baseline and at all re-examinations. Implant sites located adjacent to the teeth showed bone gain during the initial period while sites that were facing edentulous zones lost some bone.