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Purpose: The purpose of this study was to clinically evaluate the mucosal condition and
the esthetic and functional results of distraction implants loaded with fixed or removable
implant-supported restorations. Materials and Methods: A total of 35 patients were
treated with 62 distraction implants for correction of alveolar ridge deficiency. The
distraction implants were loaded with prosthetic superstructures 4 to 6 months after
distraction. Nine patients were provided with single-crown restorations, 16 received
metal-ceramic fixed partial dentures, and 10 received removable overdentures. Recall
was scheduled before and 3, 6, and 9 months after implant loading. Periotest values,
periimplant probing depths, and radiographic marginal bone levels were recorded, along
with any biologic or mechanical complications. Results: Patients were followed for 9
months after implant loading. Two distraction implants were lost before abutment
connection. After fabrication and placement of individual abutments, all implants were
loaded with prosthetic superstructures. The results showed a decrease of the Periotest
values, and thus an increase of implant stability, during the following 9 months.
Periimplant probing depths also decreased in the first months after implant loading. Soft
tissue around the superstructures and adjacent teeth was healthy. Conclusion: The
distraction implant system has a high potential for osseointegration. Because of the gentle
distraction technique and the possibility of using individual abutments at almost any
angulation, satisfying esthetic and functional results are possible. The rate of
complications was low in this short-term study. Int J Prosthodont 2003;16:19–24.
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