Evaluating Immediate and Delayed loading protocols in anterior implants: A Randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim To compare the bone loss and the soft tissue condition , stability and patient satisfaction of the conventionally loaded dental implants with those loaded immediately. Materials and Methods This randomized clinical trial was conducted involving a total of 60 patients aged 18–55 years, each requiring replacement of a single tooth in the maxillary anterior region (central or lateral incisor). Participants were randomly assigned to two groups of 30 each. Group A (Immediate Loading) wherein a provisional screw-retained crown (kept out of occlusion) was placed within 48 hours and Group B (Delayed Loading) wherein Healing abutments were attached, and final restorations were delivered after 12 weeks Results Successful and stable osseointegration in both groups was observed  at 12 months. After 12 months, no implant demonstrated bone loss exceeding 1.5 mm. Both modified plaque and bleeding indices remained within normal limits, showing no statistically significant intergroup differences (P > 0.05). At 3 months, patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the immediate loading group.  Conclusion Both immediate and delayed loading protocols for single-tooth_anterior maxillary implants yielded similar outcomes at 12 months.  Immediate loading offered better patient satisfaction without compromising implant stability or peri-implant health. Hence, is considered a priority for anteriorimplant rehabilitation.