Full-Arch Treatment of Atrophic Edentulous Mandible Using Short Implants With Immediate Loading: Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Implantology

Background:

• Full-arch implant rehabilitation in severely atrophic edentulous mandibles presents significant challenges.
• Limited bone availability and high fracture risk complicate traditional treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of short implants with immediate loading for full-arch rehabilitation in an extremely atrophic edentulous mandible.
• To assess the short-term outcomes, including implant stability, peri-implant tissue health, and prosthetic integrity.

Main Methods:

• A 66-year-old female patient received 4 short implants in the interforaminal region of her atrophic mandible.
• A hybrid metal-plastic full-arch prosthesis was immediately loaded 3 days post-surgery.
• Patient follow-up included mechanical examination, peri-implant tissue assessment, and radiographic evaluation at 6 months.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced no complications at the 6-month follow-up.
• Implants demonstrated no mobility or signs of failure, indicating successful osseointegration (fibrointegration).
• Radiographs confirmed stable bone levels, and the mandible showed preserved integrity without fracture.

Conclusions:

• Short implants with immediate loading represent a less invasive and time-efficient treatment option for severe mandibular atrophy.
• This technique provides predictable outcomes, maintaining implant stability and prosthetic function.
• Preservation of jaw integrity is a key benefit, mitigating fracture risks in compromised bone.