Diagnostic Considerations for Esthetic Implant Therapy
tive space in terms of mesiodistal and buccolingual dimensions. Therefore, it is helpful in deciding on the number of the future implants to be used. In areas where function is of prime importance, as in replacing missing posterior dentition, a maximum number of implants should be used to assist in better loading. This provides a larger surface area of support, because loads are magniďŹ ed as they move farther posteriorly in the oral cavity.
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On the other hand, in areas where esthetics are desirable and biting forces are less damaging, it is preferable to reduce the number of implants used (without compromising the function). This is sometimes called the pontic enhancement method or pontic development technique, and is shown in Figures 2.4A–C. This technique can
I G
Figure 2.3I. Intraoral picture of the case restored.
H J Figure 2.3G, H. Implants in place and abutments connected for immediate functional loading.
Figure 2.3J. Extraoral view showing the overall patient improvement.
Figure 2.4A, B, C. Illustrations showing the use of a reduced number of implants to enable enhanced peri-implant soft tissue architecture via the pontic development method. In 2.4B, note the effect of the pressure of the pontic at the red arrow.