Single-Unit Short Implants in the Molar Region: A Retrospective Study with a Minimum 3-Year Follow-up

The high biomechanical loads in molar region wounds challenge the indication for short implants to be used as a single-unit implant This study reports on the outcomes of single-unit short implants 8.0 mm) in the maxillary and mandibular molar regions. Forty-nine short implants were placed in 48 patients to replace a missing molar tooth. Two-piece restorations with screw retention were fabricated. During the follow-up, implant survival and marginal bone loss (MBL) were assessed. The known implant length was used as a reference to calibrate the linear measurements on digital periapical radiographs, and descriptive statistical analysis was performed. The implants were followed over a period of 47 +/- 12 months. No implant failure was recorded, and no prosthesis failure was observed. The average MBL was 0.15 +/- 0.5 mm. The mean crown height space was 13 +/- 3 mm. The overall crown to implant ratio was 1.7 +/- 0.4. Two technical complications occurred due to the loosening of the unit abutment. After screw re tightening, no more screw loosening was observed. This study supports the use of short implants as a single-unit implant in the maxillary and mandibular molar regions.