DENTAL IMPLANTATION IN GERIATRIC AND ONCOLOGIC PATIENTS: CLINICAL EVIDENCE AND A PROTOCOL-BASED APPROACH FOR COMPLEX REHABILITATION

Objective: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and protocol-driven approach of dental implant rehabilitation in geriatric patients with a history of oncologic treatment, and to determine the feasibility and outcomes of implantation following extensive oral resections.Materials and Methods: This study includes 53 elderly patients, including clinical cases of maxillary and mandibular cancer-related resections.All patients underwent combined oncologic treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy).Implants were placed no earlier than 6 to 12 months posttreatment depending on individual risk.Two detailed cases are presented.Results: A total of 61 implants were placed with an overall peri-implantitis incidence of 11.4%.Full functional restoration of mastication, speech, and swallowing was achieved.No implant failures occurred during osseointegration, including in reconstructed graft sites.Conclusion: Dental implantation is safe and effective in elderly patients, including those with extensive oncologic treatment histories.With careful planning and adherence to clinical protocols, implants significantly improve life quality and function.This study offers a guideline for safe rehabilitation in similar high-risk populations.