Immediate loading: principles, requirements, and soft-tissue management

Immediate loading is defined as the prosthetic loading of dental implants within the first week of loading. From a biomechanical standpoint, immediate loading can result in success and survival rates comparable to conventionally loaded dental implants. Immediate implant positioning and loading preserved the papillae and soft tissue contours around the implant. Additionally, overall treatment time is decreased and the patient’s functional abilities are sooner established. Completing this procedure yields the potential for increased patient satisfaction predictably and efficiently. There are multiple factors to consider in determining whether a patient is an ideal candidate for immediate loading. Placement of an adequate number of implants in well-dispersed positions is necessary in successful immediate loading