Differences in treatment outcomes of definitive fixed implant-supported restorations with or without an interim restoration: A systematic review

Statement of problem: Guidance to determine whether providing an interim implant-supported restoration is beneficial is lacking. Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to answer the following focused question: “Does the use of interim fixed implant prostheses before placement of a definitive fixed implant-supported prostheses impact esthetics, peri-implant health, and osseointegration in partially dentate adults?” Material and methods: A search of electronic databases (Medline and Embase) and the nonpeer-reviewed literature for randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and cohort studies in the English language was conducted. Results: Two studies met the eligibility criteria. Heterogeneity of the study methodologies and outcome measures did not allow for meta-analysis. Use of interim implant-supported restorations may improve the esthetic outcome. Occlusal loading of definitive implant-supported prosthesis without the use of an interim restoration may decrease chair time and the number of patient visits. Conclusions: The systematic review has found insufficient evidence to support or refute the practice of providing an interim restoration before delivering an implant-supported prosthesis.