Current prevalence and preferences for immediate loading of fixed completearch implant-supported prostheses: A survey among South African Prosthodontists
Abstract
Edentulism negatively impacts patients quality of life. A fixed complete-arch implant-supported
prosthesis is proven to restore function and aesthetics and is associated with high patient satisfaction.
An immediate loading protocol can provide patient satisfaction in a shorter period, as the time between
surgical implant placement and connection of a prosthesis is lessened. The many considerations
involved in this type of treatment are either based on available evidence or the preferences of the
clinicians themselves.