Current Considerations for Full-Arch Fixed Rehabilitations: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Full-arch rehabilitation is a complex dental procedure.
• Immediate implant placement and immediate loading are advanced techniques.
• Controversies exist regarding specific aspects of these procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review current and controversial topics in full-arch rehabilitation.
• To focus on the combination of immediate implant placement and immediate loading.
• To identify areas lacking consensus in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Literature review using PubMed.
• Focused on recent publications concerning immediate placement and loading for full-arch rehabilitation.
• Identified key subtopics: hopeless dentition, bone removal, and implant quantity.

Main Results:

• Strong scientific evidence supports the number of implants needed for full-arch restorations.
• Defining hopeless dentition and the necessity of bone removal remain subjects of clinical debate.
• No established consensus exists for these specific aspects.

Conclusions:

• Individualized treatment planning is crucial for classifying hopeless dentition, prosthetic design, bone reduction, and implant number.
• Limited evidence-based guidelines exist, creating challenges for clinicians.
• Integrating clinical expertise with ethical considerations is vital for optimal outcomes.