For beginners, however, before the implant is inserted, the natural teeth abutments that will act as the anterior supports must be prepared and the castings fabricated, figs. 26, 27, 28, so that there will be a minimum amount of time elapsing from the moment the implant is inserted until the final prosthesis is cemented—3 to 6 weeks is ideal.

The incision is made, figs. 29, 30, and the tissues retracted, fig. 31.

The groove is made with the #700 XL bur, figs. 32 & 33. The bladevent is fitted into the groove, figs. 34, 35, 36, and tapped to its proper depth, figs. 37, 38.

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