An alternative solution for mandible rehabilitation: fixed full arch prosthesis on short implants, a randomized cohort study

Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate a surgical/prosthetic protocol for the rehabilitation of edentulous mandible with four short implants and a metal-free fixed prosthesis. Materials and methords Study design: ten patients with mandibular edentulism were enlisted into the study. Four short implants (4x5 mm) were inserted. After four months, the implants were uncovered and a metal-free prosthesis was designed using a substructure made from a fiber-reinforced composite (Trinia TM, Bicon LLC, Boston, MA) and denture teeth. Follow-up visits were scheduled at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after prosthetic loading. Results At the end of follow-up, an implant success rate of 95% was recorded. No significant effect over time on mean bone level variation (expressed as percentage of variation compared to baseline value) was observed, with an average bone loss of -0,47 mm ± 0.64 mm. In addition, no worsening of periodontal indexes examined and prosthetic complications were noted. Parameters of patient perception examined revealed a good level of satisfaction (score range 6-9, out of a 0-10 score scale). Conclusions These data highlight the potential of the technique as an alternative solution to limit additional preprotesic surgery and to perform atraumatic and conservative treatment in case of atrophic jaws .