Single-tooth implant treatment in the anterior region of the maxilla for treatment of tooth loss after trauma:: a retrospective clinical and interview study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of single-tooth implant treatment in patients where teeth have been lost as a result of trauma. Also, the patients' and professionals' opinions regarding the final outcome of treatment were assessed. Thirty-four patients with 42 lost teeth were evaluated by clinical and radiographic examinations and interviews 2-5 years after treatment. A professional who had not taken part in the treatment evaluated the implant crowns. Central maxillary incisors were the most frequently lost and replaced teeth after trauma (75%) followed by lateral incisors (21%). In patients with incomplete growth, implant treatment was generally postponed until completion of growth. Lack of space was treated by presurgical orthodontics (7%) or by selecting an implant with a reduced diameter (5%). Deficiency of bone was seen in 17% and was treated by bone grafting or local augmentation prior to implant surgery. Patients who had lost two or more teeth after trauma were all subjected to bone grafting. Preservation of roots in the alveolar process seemed to maintain the bone volume enabling better conditions for later implant placement. Forty-one implants (97.6%) were integrated successfully. Complications were few and of minor importance (9.5% before and 12% after cementation of crowns) and could all be managed. No or minimal bone loss was seen. In general, the patients felt that they received good care and that they were well informed about their treatment. Some patients reported that the local anesthesia procedure was not pain-free, but 71% of the patients experienced the treatment as pain-free. For each of the variables (color, shape, height, and size of the crowns), the highest degree of satisfaction was noted in 93-98% of the patients and 91-95% of the single evaluating professional. Given that the patients have finished growth and a careful treatment planning and timing are performed, the functional and esthetical outcome of single-tooth implant treatment today is excellent and can be recommended for replacing tooth losses after trauma in the anterior region of the maxilla.