Single Tooth Restoration in the Maxilla with an Ultra-wide Diameter Implant: A Clinical Report

Abstract

Immediate implant placement in the molar region is challenging due to complicated socket morphology, residual inter-radicular bone, and concurrence of the mandibular canal or maxillary sinus. These challenges may impede the placement of implants 10 mm or longer. Placing regular diameter implants <10 mm in length may result in poor primary stability, non-axial loading, increased functional overload, implant failure, compromised emergence profile, creation of a cantilever effect, difficulty in maintaining adequate hygiene around the restoration and the implant, and abutment screw loosening. Implant diameters >6 mm (“ultra-wide”) have been advocated to circumvent the disadvantages of regular diameter implants <10 mm in length in the molar regions. The purpose of this article is to report a case utilizing an ultra-wide diameter implant (Max Dental Implant System, Keystone Dental, Burlington, MA) to replace an extracted molar tooth.