The posts are adjusted after the socket has been prepared, and after the bladevent has been curved to fit the groove. If very acute angling is needed to adjust the posts, some adjustment can be done by grinding (20) outside the mouth to create a new taper (21). When exaggerated angling is predictable and if time permits, it is often more practical to order a custom-made bladevent with the posts already angled.

In most cases, the need for countersinking will become obvious as the implant approaches the crest. Countersinking is more easily accomplished with the implant out of its socket.

Most adjustments in the necks of the posts should be made outside the mouth, prior to final seating. However, when a double-posted bladevent is used in firm bone, minor adjustments can be made in the mouth. After the implant has been almost seated to its proper depth — i.e., only the posts and their necks protrude above the crest — one cone socket pliers stabilizes one post for use as a brace (22), while another pliers adjusts the second post (23) by bending its neck.

Caution: Work cautiously with the pliers near the crest. A slip or pinch of the pliers can easily bruise or fracture bone.

Any lack of parallelism of the posts after the implants are fully seated can be adjusted with the 700 XL bur without dislodging the implant. The post height can be shortened with the 700 XL bur or a heatless wheel — always with water. This type of paralleling should always be done immediately after the implant is inserted so as to allow for easy insertion and removal of a temporary splint. Also to avoid having to do this procedure at a later time when the bone is undergoing catabolic changes which could cause dislodgment of the implant.

Problem Ridge: Limited Space

Space in which to work may be limited for two entirely different reasons. The presence of natural teeth may make it difficult to maneuver an implant into bone between the teeth and avoid the roots. In such a situation, the implantologist is usually working under relatively favorable conditions; i.e., in fair to good bone sites. The other reason is bad news: extensive resorption has left almost

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