Reliability of retrievable cemented implant-supported prostheses

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Cemented implant restorations can be difficult to retrieve, potentially leading to destruction.
• Retrieval challenges pose a significant disadvantage for cemented implant restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term survival rates of cemented posterior metal ceramic implant-supported prostheses (ISPs) featuring a metal screw access hole.
• To compare the outcomes of ISPs with and without screw access holes.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study assessed 274 cemented ISPs with screw access holes (study group) and 119 conventional cemented ISPs (control group) over 12 years.
• Prosthetic outcomes including ceramic fracture, screw loosening, and refabrication were monitored.
• Statistical analysis using Pearson Chi square and Fisher exact tests compared outcome parameters between groups.

Main Results:

• Ceramic fracture rates were similar between groups (6.2% test vs. 7.6% control).
• Screw loosening incidence was comparable (3.28% test vs. 3.36% control).
• Refabrication rates were significantly lower in the study group (1.45% test vs. 6.72% control, P=.012).

Conclusions:

• Cemented implant-supported prostheses with a screw access hole demonstrate improved long-term survival rates.
• This design reduces maintenance costs without compromising porcelain integrity or screw stability.
• The findings suggest a favorable long-term prognosis for cemented ISPs with screw access holes.