General Principles

The surgical approaches to various maxillary implant sites are directly related to morphology. The ideal morphological situations and the best surgical approaches to such sites are presented first, followed by increasingly difficult variations. The information covers only implant surgery. Fitting a temporary splint, designing the pros-thesis, and finally seating the fabricated appliance will only briefly be covered.

Appropriate Implants

Although maxillary anatomy differs greatly from mandibular, the same two basic types of implants are recommended for use in both arches : the endosteal bladevent and the subperiosteal implant. Either one type or the other is usually clearly appropriate. However, in some situations the choice between endosteal and subperiosteal types is difficult, as will be seen. Borderline morphological situations can be prejudiced by prosthodontic considerations or the morphology can be altered to accommodate or favor a specific type of implant.

The Bladevent

The bladevent, which is inserted into alveolar bone, comes in several varieties especially designed for the maxilla in addition to

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