A prospective multicenter study of immediate function of 1-piece implants: a 3-year follow-up report

Statement of problem Although 1-piece implants are associated with positive clinical outcomes, including improved implant stability, overall survival rate, and marginal bone levels, a few studies have suggested that 1-piece implants have low success rates. Purpose This prospective multicenter study evaluated the efficacy of 1-piece implants placed in immediate function in private clinic-based and hospital-based settings with a focus on marginal bone level changes and esthetic outcomes over a 3-year follow-up period. Material and methods A total of 93 one-piece implants (29 maxillary, 64 mandibular) were placed in 63 participants (25 men and 38 women) at 1 university hospital and 3 private clinics. The implants were restored with interim crowns immediately after placement. Clinical and radiographic evaluations of marginal bone level, implant stability, periimplant mucosa, and plaque and papilla indices were performed at the time of implantation and after 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. Results The 3-year cumulative implant survival rate was 100%. After implant placement, mean bone levels changed from -0.16 ±1.41 mm at 24 months to 0.40 ±1.46 mm at 36 months. Clinical parameters, including implant stability, periimplant mucosa, and plaque index, remained stable from 3 to 36 months during follow-up. The papilla index score increased over time. Conclusions Within the limitations of this prospective study, marginal bone level was maintained, soft tissue integration was achieved, and a cumulative survival rate of 100% was obtained for 1-piece implants. The present findings indicate that 1-piece implants are an effective treatment option for immediate function situations.