434 Theories and techniques of oral implantology

Because the templates were designed without vertical posts to avoid interference with the acute angulation of the pin implants, the two posterior superstructures had to be affixed to the templates with acrylic rather than cement. The inner surfaces of the superstructures were processed with hundreds of tiny bubbles (Fig. 10-182) , which helped lock the

acrylic inside the crowns. The superstructures were cast to fit exactly over the templates.

The prosthesis was fitted over the two remaining teeth and, from the radiographs and palpation of the soft tissues, the areas for the vent-plants were reassessed. Only one implant was seated at a time. When proceeding in this manner, it is imperative to

Fig. 10-182. The superstructure castings were cast with "masses" of tiny bubbles in order to secure the acrylic.

Fig. 10-183. The vent-plants were set into the bone one by one, and the tissue-bearing surfaces of the pontics were opened to accommodate the protruding shafts.

Fig. 10-184. After the bridge was cemented, pin implants were drilled through the template between the vertical mushroom-like pin heads. The ends of the pins were cut short so that they would not interfere with the fit of both superstructures.