Purpose: To present clinical data from a 7-year follow-up study of edentulous mandibles rehabilitated according to an immediate loading protocol with prefabricated bars.
Materials and methods: Forty-four implants were inserted in 11 patients and were evaluated by means of resonance frequency analysis (RFA) and clinical and radiographic examination.
Results: Ten patients returned for the 7-year evaluation and presented no implant loss. The stability measurements were performed immediately after implant placement (T0 = 64.5 ± 6.6 ISQ) and 1 year (T1 = mean 66.8 ± 4.2 ISQ), and 7 years (T7 = mean 62.8 ± 5.4) after being in function. The analysis of the RFA values showed a statistically significant decrease in implant stability after 7 years in function, although the final values are considered adequate for treatment success. Panoramic x-ray examination showed bone loss greater than the first thread in 10 implants.
Conclusion: According to the obtained data, it can be concluded that immediate loading according to this protocol with prefabricated bars is a valid treatment option for edentulous patients providing sufficient long-term success.