The results of this study suggest that the rehabilitation of the edentulous mandible by an immediate occlusally loaded hybrid prosthesis supported by five to six Osseotite implants represents a viable alternative treatment to classic delayed loading protocols.

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Introduction The general practitioner and dental technician should attempt to prosthetically restore the area that cannot be surgically reconstructed. Regardless of technician's endeavours to meet aesthetics and functionality criteria, inal restoration can be viewed as a failure, since it departs from previously set goals and ultimately disappoints the patient 1. This article discusses the correct use of arti icial gum for implant-assisted prosthesis. Methodology Treating the anterior segment of both jaws in complex clinical cases is always dif icult, even with clear diagnostic parameters and in spite of following a sensible treatment plan. Completing a bone and soft-tissue graft and conditioning them in a second-stage surgery do not guarantee success in treatment: in some cases, it is necessary to resort to use of prosthetic devices, such as arti icial gum. Discussion Clinical success with the use of pink gum restoration depends on the precise planning of prosthetic surgical steps. Conclusion The use of arti icial gum is a new way for dental professionals (surgeons, prostheticians and dental technicians) to assess a case and devise a treatment.

Introduction This study reports the results of a prospective clinical study on immediate loading of prostheses in full arches of edentulous mandibles supported by osseointegrated implants from different brands. Materials and methods The study involved 73 patients. A total of 501 implants were inserted, out of which 420 implants were inserted through immediate occlusal loading. Interim prostheses were placed 4 h after surgery. Final prostheses were placed 6 months after. Marginal bone loss was monitored through linear measurement of the mesial/distal surfaces by means of paralleling (long-cone) periapical X-rays. Results Eight implants failed to integrate in 2 months of occlusal loading. The cumulative success rate was 98.06% from 19 July 1999 to 19 October 2012 (the average being 18-84 months). Crest bone loss around immediately loaded implants was found to be similar to that reported in standard protocols for delayed loading. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest that edentulous mandible rehabilitation through fixed, immediately loaded, occlusal, interim prostheses supported by four, five or six implants constitutes a viable alternative to traditional treatment protocols for delayed loading.