Early functional loading using Brånemark dental implants.
The present review article discusses the one- and two-stage surgical protocol for dental implant placement as well as the critical amount of micromotion at the bone-implant interface to obtain proper osseointegration. The relevant literature supporting the hypothesis that "splinting of individual implants as soon as possible following installation via a rigid fixed device will most likely decrease the micromotion at the bone-implant interface thus facilitating proper bone healing (osseointegration)" is reported. As a consequence of this approach, the treatment period can be significantly reduced. Finally, the importance of an objective evaluation of the bone quality and initial implant stability is highlighted. The information thus obtained via tools already available will facilitate the decision as to whether to load implants immediately, early, or late, and the term "individual functional loading" is coined.