Immediate Load Protocol for Anterior Maxilla With Cortical Bone From Mandibular Ramus

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the concept of a nonfunctional immediate load protocol with single implants placed in the anterior maxilla that has been bone grafted with autogenous, block cortical grafts harvested from the ramus of the mandible. METHODS: There were 19 hydroxyapatite-coated dental implants surgically placed in 19 patients, and immediately loaded between 48 hours and 3 days later with a custom acrylic provisional restoration that was placed out of functional occlusion. After 12 weeks, the definitive ceramo metal restoration was cemented to the custom abutment. RESULTS: Over a 1-year observation period, all implants continue to function. CONCLUSION: The preliminary results of this clinical study indicate that immediate, nonfunctional load with single implants is a predictable protocol in the bone grafted anterior maxilla in select cases.