A comparative study of one implant versus two replacing a single molar

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Biomaterials Science
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Single molar replacement with dental implants is a common procedure.
• Brånemark implants are widely used for tooth replacement.
• Understanding the long-term biomechanical stability and success rates of single versus multiple implants is crucial for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical outcomes and biomechanical stability of single versus two Brånemark implants used to replace a single molar.
• To evaluate success rates, marginal bone loss, and complication frequencies over a 3-year period.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 47 patients, with 22 receiving one implant and 25 receiving two implants for single molar replacement.
• Monitoring of implant success rate, marginal bone loss, Sulcus Bleeding Index, and prosthesis complications over 3 years.
• Analysis of occlusal contact and biomechanical support.

Main Results:

• A 3-year cumulative success rate of 99% was observed for both groups.
• Marginal bone loss was slightly higher in the two-implant group (0.24 mm) compared to the single-implant group (0.10 mm).
• Prosthesis mobility or screw loosening was significantly more frequent in the single-implant group (48%) than in the two-implant group (8%).

Conclusions:

• Implant-supported molars demonstrate high success rates, with two implants offering superior mechanical stability and reduced complication rates.
• While single implants show high survival, addressing mechanical issues like screw loosening is important, potentially through improved abutment designs.
• The findings support biomechanical analyses suggesting two implants provide more advantageous support than one for molar replacement.