Planning Considerations and Retention Options for Implant Restorations

When placing a dental implant careful consideration must be given to the final restoration. Placement of a single implant is a frequent occurrence in the private general practice. This article will review key elements of successful implant placement and restoration, including case selection, fabrication of diagnostic casts, and the use of cone-beam computed tomography scanning and radiographic guides. Case illustrations of three different types of single-implant restorations— screw-retained, cement-retained, and a hybrid screw-cementable restoration—will be highlighted.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe the proper steps for evaluating and working up an implant case

• Discuss how to design and fabricate radiographic and surgical guides for predictable implant placement

• Explain how to manage screw-retained, cemented, and screw-cementable restorations

About the Author

Amerian D. Sones
Faculty, Texas A&M University, College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas; Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics