What Researchers Did
This retrospective study investigated the clinical experience of dental implant placement in 31 oral cancer patients over a 15-year period in Australia.
What They Found
Researchers found a high implant retention rate, with 110 out of 115 implants (95.7%) retained. Only 5 implants failed, all of which were placed in irradiated free flap bone.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian oral cancer patients undergoing surgical management may benefit significantly from dental implants for oral rehabilitation. However, those with irradiated free flap bone should be aware of a potentially increased risk of implant failure.
Canadian Relevance
This study was conducted in Australia and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a retrospective study with a relatively small sample size, these findings may not be broadly generalizable.