REHABILITATION OF THE EDENTULOUS MANDIBLE WITH OSSEOINTEGRATED DENTAL IMPLANTS - 10-YEAR FOLLOW-UP

Long-term retrospective studies on the efficacy of implant retained bridgework are relatively few. In this study, 10 year follow-up results are reported on the rehabilitation of the edentulous mandible with osseointegrated implant anchored bridges. Fifteen patients were closely maintained and monitored using the conventional indices used in longitudinal periodontal research, together with serial intraoral periapical and extraoral panoramic radiographs. The need for prosthetic maintenance and the effects of the treatment on soft tissues, supporting bone, opposing dentition and the behavioural aspects of such rehabilitation are discussed, Based on the reviewed results of the study and numerous other investigations, the treatment of mandibular edentulism with fixed bridges supported by osseointegrated implants ad modum Branemark is a highly effective method, giving predictable long-term results.