This systematic review publication based on a Cochrane review was first published in 2010 . The American Dental Association Centre for Evidence-based Dentistry has now published a critical summary of this review.
The review was of high quality, only considering randomised controlled trials comparing immediate (I), immediate-delayed (ID) or delayed (D) implant placement. However most of the included studies had high risk of bias and small sample sizes. Conflicts of interest were also noted in the majority of studies.
The appraiser noted that:-
The review fails to provide sufficient evidence for determining the optimal time for placing dental implants after tooth extraction and the need for bone augmentation procedures. It did not substantiate any benefits associated with I or ID implants. The patient should assume an important role in the treatment decision-making process. Factors such as aesthetics, cost, time, and side-effects may be considered.
