Implant loading protocols for the partially edentulous posterior mandible

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Dental implants are crucial for replacing missing teeth.
• Loading protocols significantly impact implant success.
• The posterior mandible presents unique challenges for implant placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the predictability of early and immediate loading protocols for dental implants in the posterior mandible.
• To compare success rates, survival rates, and peri-implant parameters between different loading protocols.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of human clinical studies was performed.
• Publications were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria.
• Two independent reviewers validated the study selection process.

Main Results:

• Nineteen studies were included: 8 on early loading, 9 on immediate loading, and 2 comparative studies.
• Five studies were randomized clinical trials, and 14 were prospective studies.
• Early loading at 6-8 weeks is supported for microroughened implants.

Conclusions:

• Early loading of microroughened implants in the posterior mandible is predictable and can be considered routine.
• Immediate loading is a viable treatment option, but requires cautious interpretation of results.
• Further randomized clinical trials with longer follow-ups are needed to solidify data on immediate loading protocols.