Etiology, occurrence, and consequences of implant loss

Abstract

Implant therapy aims at providing the patient with a functional and esthetically pleasing rehabilitation in a long-term perspective. The loss of an implant constitutes a major complication, which may have an impact on the treatment plan and/or jeopardize the longevity of the restoration. Implant loss may occur during the phase of osseointegration (early) or at a later time when the previously achieved osseointegration is lost (late). The present work evaluates the evidence on the occurrence of both events and discusses etiology, risk factors, and consequences.

Keywords: bone loss; complication; dental implant; etiology; loss; risk factors.

FIGURE 1

Consequences of early implant loss as reported by Derks et al, with 121 patients affected by early implant loss

FIGURE 2

A, Implant installed 12 y earlier. Clinical features: mobility and shallow peri‐implant probing. Note the peri‐implant radiolucency (gap) and seemingly maintained peri‐implant marginal bone levels. Etiological factor for late implant loss: overload/trauma resulting in loss of integration. B, Implant installed 8 y earlier. Clinical features: deep peri‐implant probing, signs of soft tissue inflammation, and absence of mobility. Note the crater‐like bone defect. Etiological factor for late implant loss: peri‐implantitis

FIGURE 3

Consequences of late implant loss as reported by Derks et al, with 25 patients affected by late implant loss. Note that patients could be included in multiple categories