Evaluation of Crestal Bone Loss in Single Tooth Posterior Implant Restorations - A Cohort Study

Aims & Objectives: To evaluate the success rate and crestal bone loss around single tooth dental implant restorations in the posterior region. Materials and Method: 55 implants placed in 55 patients were observed for this study. All implants were restored by metal ceramic crowns. Patients were followed up for 2 years. Radiographic and clinical evaluations were done at the 1 and 2 year recall appointment after implant placement. Results: Implants showed 100% survival rate. There was statistically significant bone loss during the first year and no significant crestal bone loss between first and second year. It was also observed that the mandibular restorations showed lesser bone loss than the maxillary restorations. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that majority of the crestal bone loss around posterior implants occur within the first year and the bone loss becomes stabilized then after.