We live in an era in which dental medicine has been profoundly transformed by technology. One of the fields where innovation has made the greatest strides is implantology. Until a few years ago, rehabilitating a full dental arch meant long healing times, temporary removable dentures, and multiple surgeries. Today, the scenario is radically different: it is now possible to smile again with fixed teeth in just 24 hours. We’re talking about immediate load implantology, an advanced technique that allows implants to be placed and a fixed prosthesis applied on the very same day. This procedure offers not only aesthetic and functional advantages, but also psychological and practical benefits: less stress, less waiting, and a single surgical session. Dr. Marra, a dentist specializing in implantology and prosthetic implantology in stomatology, explains how this clinical revolution works. He has been applying this technique in his practice for years with excellent and predictable results.
by Roberta Imbimbo
Dr. Marra, we’re living in a time when dental technology is advancing rapidly. What has changed for patients needing full-mouth rehabilitation?
Compared to the past, we now have the concrete possibility of giving patients fixed teeth within 24 hours. Immediate load implantology makes it possible to insert implants—often without the need for bone grafts—and place a temporary fixed prosthesis on the very same day of the surgery. It’s a real breakthrough, especially for those who need to completely rehabilitate one or both arches—cases that are often clinically complex and severely compromised. Today, with modern techniques and meticulous planning, we can restore chewing function, aesthetics, and confidence in incredibly short time frames.
What innovations have made this qualitative leap possible?
In recent years, we’ve seen a radical evolution in both surgical techniques and the materials used. Advanced implant surfaces, more efficient prosthetic designs, and increasingly standardized clinical protocols have greatly shortened healing times while improving predictability. Moreover, modern digital technologies have introduced powerful new tools, such as computer-guided surgery and prosthetically guided surgery. Specialized software enables us to create a 3D surgical plan based on Cone Beam CT scans, allowing for precise implant placement based on the final prosthesis. This approach reduces the margin of error, increases patient comfort, and ensures highly predictable aesthetic and functional outcomes.
What are the advantages compared to traditional implantology?
The main difference lies in the timing and management of the procedure. The so-called delayed loading technique—the traditional approach—includes two phases: implants are placed first, followed by a healing period of about 4–6 months before the final prosthesis is applied. During that time, the patient wears a temporary removable denture. With immediate loading, however, everything is done in one session: implants are inserted and temporary teeth are fixed on the same day. The patient enters the office with a compromised smile and leaves just a few hours later with a stable, fixed new one. The benefits are clear: aesthetic, functional, and psychological.
Is the procedure painful?
Absolutely not. Even in the most complex cases, the procedure is performed under conscious sedation: the patient remains awake but in a state of deep relaxation, without feeling pain or anxiety. For simpler cases, local anesthesia is often sufficient. Thanks to computer-guided surgery, incisions and stitches can often be avoided altogether. This makes the procedure minimally invasive, quicker, and easier in terms of post-operative recovery. Post-surgical support is also crucial: regular follow-ups, targeted pharmacological therapy, and clear instructions regarding oral hygiene, diet, and lifestyle. All of this is part of a structured and safe clinical path.
Let’s talk about safety: how reliable is this technique?
Today’s clinical protocols offer a very high level of predictability, with success rates above 98%, fully comparable to those of delayed loading. It is a scientifically validated technique that requires significant experience, clinical rigor, and individualized planning. Technology is an extraordinary aid, but true success depends on a multidisciplinary approach and a well-coordinated team.
What advice would you give to someone considering this treatment?
Don’t be discouraged—seek accurate information. Today’s technology allows us to handle even very complex cases with excellent results. The key is to rely on experienced professionals and facilities that manage every step with care: from diagnosis to surgery, through prosthetic rehabilitation and follow-up. A smile is not just about appearance—it’s a right to peace of mind. And today, we have the tools to restore it in just one day.
For more information:
https://www.miodottore.it/marco-marra/dentista-ortodontista-chirurgo/torre-del-greco
