Resumo

JULYAN, J; SINGH, A  e  MAART, R. Immediate loading of fixed complete-arch implant-supported prostheses -Preferences of prosthodontists in South Africa. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2025, vol.80, n.1, pp.13-19. ISSN 0375-1562.  https://doi.org/10.17159/sadj.v80i01.20214.

INTRODUCTION: Implant dentistry's crucial role demands predictable long-term results, challenging clinicians to adapt to evolving diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Edentulism significantly impacts quality of life, and conventional dentures often fall short in achieving patient satisfaction and functional restoration. Recognising the trend in minimising treatment duration, immediate loading with fixed complete-arch implant-supported prostheses emerges as a possibility for swift restoration. However, South Africa lacks specific insights into prosthodontists' prevalence and preferences with regards to this specific restoration protocol. This study therefore aims to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the perspectives of prosthodontists practicing in South Africa on immediate loading in fixed complete-arch implant-supported prostheses, contributing valuable insights to this evolving field. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To determine the current prevalence and preferences among prosthodontists in South Africa regarding the immediate loading protocol for a fixed complete-arch implant-supported prosthesis. DESIGN AND METHODS: Conducted between July and August 2021, this mixed-methods research study involved a 23-question online survey administered to 83 prosthodontists across South Africa, comprising both a qualitative and a quantitative phase. RESULTS: Of 83 email invitations sent, an 84.34% response rate was achieved. Among the respondents, 50 administered the treatment modality. Key findings showed 54% having completed more than 30 fixed implant-supported prostheses arches, with preference for bone-level design implants (84%) and external connections (60%). CONCLUSION: Although numerous designs and materials are available for fixed complete-arch implant-supported prostheses, these findings offer a glimpse into the current clinical preferences among South African prosthodontists. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Clinical decision-making when planning fixed, implant-supported treatments can be complicated. Tried and tested protocols may help to simplify and guide this decision-making.

Palavras-chave : Prosthodontists; edentulism; implants; immediate loading; implant-supported prosthesis; complete-arch rehabilitation; restorative material preference.

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