Endosseous blade implants 481

Fig. 11-57. The finished case carefully checked and balanced.

bone in the right posterior maxillary molar area (Fig. 11-55) . The natural teeth and implant abutments were then splinted (Fig. 11-56). The final prosthesis was seated with hard cement and the occlusion carefully checked and balanced (Fig. 11-57).

A final Panorex shows the mandibular and maxillary blade-vents in the bone (Fig. 11-58).

LONG EDENTULOUS SPANS

Many problems encountered in supporting a bridge for a long edentulous span have been alleviated by the use of the blade implant. The blade's uniquely wide mesiodistal dimensions provide the kind of resistance needed against lateral forces. Also, because two prosthesis-bearing posts can surmount the same blade, the support is increased without complicating operative procedures by the necessity of introducing two implants.

Case 5

Simultaneous upper and lower blade implantations

The following case is that of a 50-year-old woman who needed implants in both arches. A full arch restoration was determined for each jaw, and all of her teeth were prepared for full crown coverage (Fig. 11-59). Various impressions were taken, including bites and opposing jaw impressions.

A single maxillary implant with two abutment posts was placed into a groove prepared in the left posterior quadrant (Fig. 11-60) ; the site was then sutured (Fig. 11-61). Another blade was similarly inserted in the long edentulous span on the right

Fig. 11-58. A postoperative Panorex. Implants were also used bilaterally in the posterior areas of the mandible.