Immediate Loading of NobelReplace™ Implants in Fresh and Healed Sites

Objectives: To compare the stability and one year survival of NobelReplace™ Tapered Groovy Implants placed in fresh or healed extraction sites and loaded with a provisional crown.

Methods: Twenty-four subjects were assigned to one of two groups. Group 1 (n=16) received implants in healed extraction sites. Group 2 (n=8) required extraction of one tooth and replacement with an immediate implant. All implants placed received an immediate resin provisional screw retained crown placed in function immediately after surgery. The stability of the implants was tested with resonance frequency analysis using an Osstell ISQ-Monitor. Implants were loaded if the measured Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) was greater than 65. The ISQ was checked again in 6 and 12 months when the final Cad/Cam abutments and metal ceramic crowns were delivered.

Results: All implants in both groups were stable enough to be loaded at the time of surgery (ISQ>65). The average ISQ at the time of surgery was 80.66+4 for the healed sites and 76.08+2 for the immediate implant sites. The average ISQ at 6 months after surgery was 85.11+2.68 for the healed sites and 80.12 + 4.10 for the immediate implant sites. At 12 months after surgery, average ISQ was 85.44+3.00 for the healed sites and 79.45+6.45 for the immediate implant sites. The survival rate for all implants placed was 100%.

Conclusions: The NobelReplace™ Tapered Groovy Implant is very stable when placed in fresh and healed extraction sites. Under both surgical protocols this implant showed a predictable survival rate when placed in immediate function.