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.