478 Theories and techniques of oral implantology

Case 3

A unilateral maxillary posterior restoration

In most unilateral implant restorations, a posterior implant in the cancellous bone of the maxilla usually does not give the same amount of support as when used in the more dense bone of the mandible. With the blade implant, however, maxillary unilateral cases have achieved the same degree of success as mandibular unilateral cases.

In this sample case (Fig. 11-41), the anterior abutment teeth were prepared for full crown res-
torations (Fig. 11-42). Impressions were taken of them, as well as a wax bite, plaster index, and al-
ginate impression of the opposing jaw, for the fab-
rication of the master models and dies (Fig. 11-43). At the next visit the castings were fitted over the
prepared abutment teeth (Fig. 11-44), and all final gingival and occlusal adjustments were accomplished.

The castings were removed and the implant inserted (Fig. 11-45).

When the tissues around the abutment post had completely healed (Fig. 11-46), final impressions and a wax interocclusal record of centric relation were taken for the fabrication of the fixed partial denture (Fig. 11-47). The prosthesis was cemented into position with hard cement (Fig. 11-48) and a final radiograph taken (Fig. 11-49, A). Fig. 11-49, B and C, shows two other cases supported by blades that avoid encroachment of the maxillary sinus.

Case 4

Bilateral mandibular and unilateral maxillary restorations

Patients with bilaterally missing posterior teeth can be restored in very much the same manner as patients with unilaterally missing teeth. Basically, all

Fie. 11-45. Imnlant is placed into eroove.

Fig. 11-46. The healed site.

Fig. 11-48. The bridge cemented in place.

Fig. 11-47. The completed prosthesis.