The analysis of failure or success with oral and maxillofacial implants

Prospective and retrospective studies on oral and maxillofacial osseointegrated implants have been performed and 'success' rates are reported to be very high. A critical analysis of the literature and anecdotal discussion with surgeons and prosthodontists alike, suggests that 'failures' occur considerably more frequently than is documented. This paper does not give a practical guide to the prevention or management of complications but it discusses the concepts of 'success' and 'failure' in implantology. Improvements in definitions, terminology and study design protocols are required together with research producing scientifically analytic and reproducible results rather than the present philosophy of the importance of the percentage of the commercial market share will allow an accurate analysis of the value and role of oral and maxillofacial implants.