Immediate versus delayed temporization at posterior single implant sites: A randomized controlled trial

Aims We conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the clinical outcomes of two loading protocols involving either immediate or delayed prosthetic temporization of single implants placed at posterior, healed sites. Materials and Methods Forty-nine patients in need of single implants at premolar or molar sites were randomized to receive a temporary crown either immediately after implant placement or 3 months later. Randomization was stratified by sex, implant location (premolar/molar) and arch (maxilla/mandible). Final implant screw-retained zirconia crowns with angulated screw channels were delivered at 5 months after surgery. Radiographic bone levels (primary outcome), peri-implant mucosal margin levels and peri-implant probing depths were recorded at baseline, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Results Both treatment arms showed similar patterns of soft tissue and bone re-modelling from the implant platform over 12 months [mean bone level change 1.6 mm (SD1.0 mm) in the delayed, and 1.2 mm (SD1.3 mm) in the immediate temporization group], with the majority of changes occurring within the first 6 months. Conclusions Immediate or delayed temporization of single implants placed at posterior healed sites resulted in largely similar 1-year outcomes with respect to peri-implant bone levels and soft tissue changes.