Immediate loading of maxillary fixed prostheses retained by zygomatic and conventional implants: 24-month preliminary data for a series of clinical case reports.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the success rate of immediately loaded conventional implants placed in the premaxilla in association with 2 zygomatic implants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients included had worn complete maxillary dentures for at least 2 years. They were required to have no severe systemic pathologies and could not be on any drugs. They could not have any oral infection, uncontrolled periodontal disease, sinusitis, parafunctional signs, alteration of the occlusal plane, or smoking habits. They had to be good candidates for the insertion of 4 or 5 traditional implants in the premaxilla and 2 zygomatic implants without guided bone regeneration. Primary stability had to be achieved. Impressions for prosthetic rehabilitation were made during first-stage surgery. Temporary fixed cross-arch prostheses were inserted 12 to 24 hours after surgery. Permanent cross-arch screw-retained prostheses were placed after 6 months.

RESULTS: Seven patients met all the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study (Caucasian, 4 males and 3 females, mean age 56.8 years). In total, 14 zygomatic and 34 conventional implants were placed. The survival rate for zygomatic and conventional implants and fixed prostheses was 100% after 24 months of functional loading.

CONCLUSION: The preliminary results are encouraging, but the long-term clinical prognosis remains to be determined.