A retrospective case series of implants used to restore partially edentulous patients with implant-supported removable partial dentures: 31-month mean follow-up results.

OBJECTIVE: The incorporation of dental implants into removable partial dentures is a common clinical practice, but it is poorly documented in the dental literature. The purpose of this retrospective case series study was to evaluate the survival of endosseous dental implants used in restoring partially edentulous patients with implant-supported removable partial dentures (ISRPDs) of different configurations, based on up to 10 years of follow-up.

METHOD AND MATERIALS: The sample consisted of 23 consecutively treated partially edentulous patients, who, between 1996 and 2005, had a total of 44 implants placed in different arch sites and who were treated with ISRPDs. The mean age was 44.2 +/- 7.5 years at inclusion. Mean follow-up time from implant placement was 31.5 months (range, 9 to 120 months). Smoking status, arch configuration before and after implant placement, follow-up time from implant placement, implant location, implant dimensions, implant and abutment survival, and overall satisfaction (assessed by questionnaire) with the restoration are presented.

RESULTS: The overall implant survival rate was 95.5%; 2 implants failed. Kennedy Class I in the maxilla (6 patients) followed by Kennedy Class II in the mandible (4 patients) were the most prevalent arch configurations before implant placement. Arch configuration was modified by implant placement in 6 patients (26.1%). During follow-up, 1 abutment tooth was lost 2 years after prosthesis delivery. All patients were satisfied with their prosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS: Implant-supported removable partial dentures could serve as a long-term predictable treatment modality. Careful patient selection, with an appropriate maintenance and recall system, is recommended to obtain satisfactory results.