Which Patient-Related Factors Influence the Outcome of Telescopic-Retained Removable Implant-Supported Dental Prostheses in Edentulous Patients?

PURPOSE: To survey the clinical performance of telescopic-retained removable implant-supported dental prostheses (TR-RISDPs) in edentulous patients, as well as incidental maintenance measures and technical complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective analysis, the former presence of oral cancer, prosthesis location (maxilla or mandible), and participation in a follow-up program were analyzed as possible factors with an influence on survival and maintenance treatments of the TR-RISDPs and dental implants using Kaplan-Meier estimates. RESULTS: A total of 86 TR-RISDPs (mean follow-up: 4.62 +/- 3.24 years; maximum 13.8 years) and 465 implants (mean follow-up: 5.67 +/- 3.59 years; maximum 16.5 years) were observed. Six (6.9%) of the TR-RISDPs had to be remade, and 11 (2.3%) implants failed. Regular attendance in the follow-up program showed significantly higher survival times and fewer maintenance treatments for the TRRISDPs (P < .05). Implants in patients with former oral cancer showed significantly lower survival times (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: TR-RISDPs in edentulous patients show excellent clinical outcomes. Regular check-ups are decisive for success.