Pterygoid extension with palatal struts

The anterior labial portion of this pterygoid extension implant is somewhat unusual. For a really secure fit for the totally edentulous patient (1), the anterior nasal spine is used for an additional cross strut and for more support (2,3). Note that the wings of each cross strut are fenestrated to lighten the implant and permit close readaptation of the soft tissues to bone, as evidenced by the uncomplicated healing (4). The finished restoration (5) is far lighter in weight and more secure than the patient's old denture.

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