retrospective analysis of Replacing dental implants in previously failed sites

Objectives: overall first year failure rate for dental implants may reach 3% to 8 %, as the result of various complications. Accordingly, re-implantation accounts for an ever growing portion of clinic's practice. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the survival rate of dental implants that were performed in sites, where failed implants were previously removed, and to evaluate the factors affecting outcome. Methods: Three certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons inserted 144 implants replacement in previously failed sites in 144 patients (1994-2009). Clinical and epidemiological data were collected retrospectively and were analyzed regarding the survival rates. Results: Survival rate of the implants replacing previously failed ones was 93% (133/144). A third placement in the same site was performed in 7 of 11 patients with a survival rate of 85% (6/7) up to the last follow up. No correlations were found between replaced implant failures to any of the parameters examined. Conclusions: Within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded, that a previous implant failure should not discourage practitioners from a second or even a third attempt.