ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To evaluate fixed partial dentures (FPDs) supported by a combination of natural teeth and implants in a variety of clinical situations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 30 patients, 86 teeth and 85 implants were used as supports for 30 FPDs of varying extension (mean = 8.6 units); 23 in the maxilla and 7 in the mandible. The prostheses had a removable section fastened with screws to both the implants and to a section cemented on the supporting teeth, and were thus functioning as rigid, fixed partial dentures. RESULTS: Five implants were lost prior to the placement of prostheses, 2 were lost after loading, giving survival rates of 91.0% in the maxilla and 95.5% in the mandible. Complications were predominantly soft tissue-related and were all amenable to treatments. One patient was lost to follow-up. The remaining 29 FPDs remained stable throughout the 3-year observation period. DISCUSSION: Changes in plaque accumulated, bleeding on probing, pocket depths, and marginal bone level were acceptable. The survival rate of implants was comparable to that of similar studies. Further investigations are needed with regard to design for such FPDs. CONCLUSION: These findings, together with the patient satisfaction experienced, indicated that the combined support of implants and teeth for fixed prostheses may be appropriate treatment for patients.
