Programmatic effectiveness of a university-based implant training program: long-term, patient-centered outcomes

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Periodontology

Background:

• Established in 1999, the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry's implant program uses a standardized Straumann system.
• The program integrates residents from periodontology and oral and maxillofacial surgery with predoctoral dental students for implant restoration.
• Stringent protocols, patient criteria, and hands-on training ensure a structured learning environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of dental implants placed within a structured academic program.
• To assess implant survival and success rates based on patient-centered outcomes.
• To analyze long-term results of a single-system implant approach in a teaching setting.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 116 patients (248 implants) who received dental implants between January 2000 and December 2002.
• Follow-up period averaged 7.05 years, with a median of 7.32 years.
• Patient-centered outcomes, including absence of pain/mobility and satisfaction with function/aesthetics, were assessed.

Main Results:

• The implant survival rate was 98.4% over a mean follow-up of 7.05 years.
• The implant success rate was 93.15%, defined by functional, aesthetic, and patient-reported satisfaction.
• A single implant system (Straumann) simplified training and inventory management.

Conclusions:

• The University of Kentucky's structured dental implant program demonstrates high survival and success rates.
• The team concept and standardized protocols contribute to positive patient-centered outcomes.
• This model provides effective training for dental residents and students while delivering successful implant restorations.