Immediate Occlusal Loading (IOL) of dental implants: predictable results through DIEM guidelines.

For years, dental implants have been loaded immediately upon implant placement with varying degrees of success. As clinicians' understanding of the biological and mechanical factors involved in immediate occlusal loading (IOL) has evolved, the success of these procedures has increased--particularly as a treatment option for the restoration of the edentulous mandible or the mandible that will be rendered edentulous during treatment. Due to increasing interest in this treatment alternative, the authors have provided a clear definition of the terminology associated with IOL and have demonstrated the DIEM Guidelines used to increase the success and predictability of such treatment. This presentation also introduces new implant components that simplify the clinical application of the immediate loading concept, enhancing its benefits and acceptance among dental patients and practices alike.