662 Theories and techniques of oral implantology

Fig. 15-108. The denture was fitted in the mouth and articulated with the lower prosthesis.

Fig. 15-109. Two different types of bridge-stabilizing blade implants. After the body of the blade has been seated in bone, the post—either a rectangular slip-in shaft (left) or a modified screw (right)—is inserted.

and loosened, it may be possible to stabilize the bridge without removing it. Two things are needed : a fairly long edentulous span and a specially constricted blade. This blade differs from other blade designs primarily in that its abutment post is re-movable (Fig. 15-109). Because a blade without a post is short, it is relatively easy to maneuver in tight spots.

The basic bridge stabilizing technique is accomplished in the following manner, as exemplified by a mandibular case (Fig. 15-110). First, the fibromucosal tissues are incised just inferior to the tissue-bearing surface of the pontics and retracted to ex-pose the bony ridge. Second, a groove is made to accept the entire depth of the blade, and the blade is tapped in until its shoulder is buried 1 to 2 mm. below the alveolar crest. At this stage it may be necessary to remove the buccogingival third of the pontic for better access to the implant site.

Third, the tissue-bearing surface of the pontic is hollow-ground with a round or fissure bur, taking care not to cut through the occlusal surface. Fourth, the abutment post is inserted into the body of the blade. Fifth, cold cure acrylic resin is brushed into the pontic to fill the hole and secure the post. The