Retrospective Analysis of Geriatric Patients Treated with Dental Implants and Implant-Retained Prostheses

Abstract

Introduction: An increasing number of geriatric patients are being treated with dental implants instead of the conventional complete dentures for enhanced oral health-related quality of life. Therefore, this retrospective study assessed the survival rates and biological and technical complications of implants placed in partially and completely edentulous geriatric patients. Materials and Method: Thirty-six elderly patients (65–80 years) rehabilitated with 105 dental implants and undergoing maintenance therapy at our private practice were included. Demographic data, including patient age, sex, systemic condition, and smoking status, were recorded. The new classification was used to define peri-implant status which was assessed based on bleeding on peri-implant probing, probing depth, suppuration, and peri-implant bone loss. Additionally, the cleanability of the prosthesis, screw-loosening, ceramic chipping, fracture of prosthesis, and their relationship with peri-implantitis were evaluated. Results: The mean age of the patients at implant surgery was 67.8±3.3 years. The implant survival rate was 100% during the mean observation period of 38±26.5 months. Forty-two (40%) implants were diagnosed as healthy, 52 (49.5%) as having peri-implant mucositis, and 11 (10.5%) as having periimplantitis. Smoking and poor oral hygiene were significantly associated with peri-implantitis (p<0.01). Peri-implantitis was also significantly more common around implants in function for >3 years (p<0.01). Conclusion: According to new classification, peri-implantitis is not common in geriatric patients. Implant treatment and implant-retained prostheses can be safely used to improve the quality of life of elderly patients. However, clinicians should plan the surgery and prepare the prosthesis carefully as elderly people may need nursing or domiciliary dental care.