Immediate versus delayed loading of implants in posterior mandible: A CBCT-based one-year comparative study

Recent studies emphasize that bone remodeling within the first year is a critical determinant of long-term implant success and marginal bone loss > 1.5 mm may jeopardize prognosis. Therefore, it is of interest to assess immediate versus delayed loading of implants in the posterior mandible over one year using CBCT evaluation. Hence, forty patients were treated with single implants allocated to immediate or delayed loading groups. Outcomes included implant survival, marginal bone changes and peri-implant soft-tissue health. Both groups achieved 100% survival. CBCT revealed slightly higher bone remodeling in immediate loading, though within clinically acceptable limits. Clinical parameters were comparable. Immediate loading, under strict case selection, may thus be a viable treatment option in posterior mandible.