Over the last two decades, dental implantology has evolved dramatically, aiming to reduce treatment time, improve patient comfort, and maximize long-term outcomes.
Among these innovations, monophasic (one-piece) dental implants have emerged as a promising solution, especially when combined with immediate loading protocols.
The traditional dental implant process often requires multiple surgeries over several months, involving the placement of a two-piece implant, healing time, and later, the prosthetic phase.
However, today’s patients increasingly demand faster solutions with fewer appointments, prompting the profession to explore "same-day implants" — a technique that inserts both the implant and a provisional crown in a single session.
This modern approach, when carefully applied, not only shortens rehabilitation times but can also improve overall patient satisfaction.
But the central question remains: Can monophasic implants truly be placed and loaded in a single visit — and do they offer predictable results?
What Are Monophasic Dental Implants?
Monophasic implants are single-unit implants in which the implant body and the abutment (the portion that holds the crown) are fused into one piece.
This contrasts with biphasic implants, which require two distinct surgical phases and components.
The integrated design of monophasic implants allows for:
✔ Simultaneous implant placement and prosthetic loading.
✔ Elimination of second-stage surgery.
✔ Reduced chair time and cost.
Monophasic systems are particularly well-suited for cases with adequate bone density and minimal surgical complications, and they have been increasingly adopted in immediate post-extraction sites.
Is a One-Visit Procedure Viable?
Yes — under certain conditions, monophasic implants can be placed and immediately loaded in a single clinical appointment.
However, strict case selection and biomechanical control are crucial to success.
Key requirements for one-visit implant placement:
✔ High primary stability: An insertion torque of at least 35–45 Ncm is generally required to support immediate loading.
✔ Healthy bone quality: Sufficient bone volume and density are needed to ensure stability and osseointegration.
✔ Infection-free site: No active periodontal or periapical infection should be present.
✔ Controlled occlusion: The prosthetic crown should be out of occlusion to avoid premature loading during healing.
When these conditions are met, recent studies have shown very high survival rates (above 95%) for immediate-loaded monophasic implants, even over long-term follow-ups.
Benefits for Patients and Professionals
For Patients
✔ Faster treatment with fewer visits.
✔ Immediate restoration of aesthetics and function.
✔ Reduced surgical trauma and postoperative discomfort.
✔ No need for temporary removable prostheses.
For Dentists
✔ Streamlined protocols.
✔ Better patient satisfaction.
✔ Faster practice turnover.
✔ Potential cost reduction in consumables and appointments.
► DENTAL BOOK: Little and Falace's Dental Management of the Medically Compromised Patient – 10th Edition (2023)
Clinical Considerations and Limitations
Despite its benefits, the one-visit approach isn’t appropriate for all patients. Limitations include:
✔ Poor bone quality (Type IV bone).
✔ Bruxism or heavy occlusal forces.
✔ Active infections or systemic contraindications.
✔ Insufficient interocclusal space.
Furthermore, although monophasic implants offer advantages, long-term scientific evidence is still growing compared to traditional two-piece systems.
Clinicians should remain cautious and follow strict surgical and prosthetic protocols.
Conclusion
Placing and loading a dental implant in a single visit is not only possible, but it is increasingly becoming a routine option in well-selected cases using monophasic systems.
While more robust long-term studies are needed, current evidence supports the efficacy and safety of this technique — provided that strict clinical criteria are followed.
As digital dentistry and biomaterials continue to evolve, the "same-day smile" is no longer a dream, but a real and reliable alternative for many patients.
Recent Scientific References
