A new study published in the Journal of Oral Implantology reports that increasing numbers of patients with edentulism undergo successful
implant-supported fixed restorations because of the use of technology that helps identify their best placement and position.

Although different types of dentures are available as treatment, the most popular is fixed restoration because most patients want to avoid having removable prostheses and wish to experience the improved esthetics, speech, and comfort associated with permanent dentures.


In this report, a man requesting treatment of his maxillary and mandibular edentulism was examined and found to be a candidate for receiving implant-supported fixed-partial dentures, one of three options and the one he selected as best able to address his chief complaints of poor appearance and reduced function.

Dental planning software was used to determine the best placement of the implants, and computed tomography was used to identify the best position of the dentures. Computed tomography is highly recommended because of its ability to estimate the available bone, which is necessary in order to determine the implants' best position, angulation, and length. The dental planning software then used the scans obtained to fine-tune the treatment plan so that the patient's needs could best be met.

Because the authors of the study intently listened to the concerns of the patient and took the time to perform such detailed presurgical planning through the application of dental planning software and computed tomography, problems that may have been encountered during the procedure were minimized. Indeed, both the patient and authors were satisfied with the procedure and outcome.

To read the entire study, visit
http://www.allenpress.com/pdf/orim-34-03-161-168.pdf

The Journal of Oral Implantology is the official publication of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and of the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics and is dedicated to providing valuable information to general dentists, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, periodontists, scientists, clinicians, laboratory owners and technicians, manufacturers, and educators. First published in November 1954 as the Journal of Implant Dentistry, it is the first and oldest journal in the world devoted exclusively to implant dentistry. To find out more about the society, visit http://www.aaid-implant.org/

Reconstruction of Edentulous Maxillary and Mandibular Arches with Implant-Supported Fixed Restorations Using a Digital Treatment Planning Technique: A Clinical Report; Journal of Oral Implantology], 2008, Vol. 34(3):161-168.

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