Background: Infection in tooth extraction sites has traditionally been considered an indication to postpone implant insertion until the infection has been resolved.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival rate of early-loaded implants placed immediately after extraction of teeth with endodontic and periodontal lesions in the mandible.
Materials and methods: Twenty patients in need of mandibular implant treatment and with teeth showing signs of infection in the interforaminal area were included in the study. The patients received four to six implants (Brånemark System, Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden) in or close to the fresh extraction sockets and received a provisional prosthesis within 3 days. Final prostheses were delivered after 3 to 12 months. The surgical protocol paid special attention to the preservation of high implant stability and control of the inflammatory response. The patients were followed up for 15 to 44 months.
Results: No implants were lost, resulting in a 100% survival rate. A mean marginal bone loss of 0.7 mm (SD 1.2 mm) was registered during the observation period. No signs of infection around the implants were detected at any follow-up visit.
Conclusion: A high survival rate can be achieved for immediately placed and early-loaded implants in the mandible despite the presence of infection at the extracted teeth.