Immediate implant placement for the treatment of a root-fractured tooth: Case report

Abstract

The use of osseointegrated implants has become an important alternative treatment approach in the rehabilitation of totally or partially edentulous patients. The classic protocol recommended to wait several months following extraction for the placement of implants. However,   the   refinement   of   surgical   techniques   and   implant   surfaces   has   allowed   for   the development of immediate post-extraction implant placement procedures. The immediate loading protocol contributes not only to decrease treatment time but also minimize the amount bone resorption. Additional advantages include easier determination of implant position, improved post-­operative  healing  in  extraction  sockets,  and  increased  patient  acceptance.  The  objective  of the present study was to describe the extraction and immediate loading of a mandibular right central incisor following a diagnosis of root fracture. Our report showed that the results obtained with immediate implant placement are feasible and predictable, and that the use of one-stage procedures results in increased patient satisfaction.