Single crown restorations supported by 6‐mm implants in the resorbed posterior mandible: A five‐year prospective case series

PURPOSE: To assess clinical performance of single restorations supported by 6‐mm long implants in the posterior mandible after 5 years in function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty‐one consecutive patients with the absence of premolars or molars in the posterior mandible and an estimated bone volume of at least 6 mm in width and an estimated height of 8 mm between the top of the ridge and alveolar nerve were included. Each patient received one or more 6‐mm implants. Custom‐made titanium abutments with cemented zirconia‐based porcelain crowns were placed after a 3‐month osseointegration period. Data of clinical examinations and radiographs were assessed at placement of the restoration and 12 and 60 months thereafter. The patients answered a questionnaire to score the satisfaction before treatment and after 12 and 60 months with the restoration in function. RESULTS: Implant survival was 100%. Five‐years' mean marginal bone loss was 0.14 mm (SD: 0.4). Indices scores for plaque, calculus, gingiva, and bleeding were low as well as mean pocket‐probing depth. Patients' satisfaction was high. CONCLUSION: Five‐year follow‐up data of this limited case series study revealed that 6‐mm dental implants inserted in the resorbed posterior mandible provide a solid basis for single tooth restoration.