Complications after treatment with implant-supported fixed prostheses:: A retrospective study

Purpose: The aim was to retrospectively evaluate the frequencies of different complications, as well as the number of visits to dentists because of such complications, after treatment with implant-supported fixed prostheses. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised 75 patients who had been treated with implant-supported fixed prostheses 3 years earlier. All case records were scrutinized, and notes of complications in association with implants and superstructures were registered. Results: The most common intervention made was occlusal adjustment/selective grinding of the prostheses. Complications in association with both implants and superstructures were fairly common. The most frequent complication was fractures of the acrylic resin matrix, including artificial acrylic resin teeth. Consultations because of periimplant mucosal inflammation were much more common among women compared to men, while complications that could be attributed to heavy loading tended to be more common in men. Conclusion: Complications with both implants and superstructures are fairly common after treatment with implant-supported fixed prostheses. Regular follow-ups to maintain optimal function in these patients are thus mandatory.