It is difficult to achieve a high degree of reproducibility when using a diagnostic wax-up as the template for fabrication of a definitive implant restoration. Here a method for implant prosthesis treatment planning is described that allows fabrication of the provisional restoration before surgical placement of the implant. The method involves 6 steps: (1) determining the mesiodistal inclination of the implant, (2) determining the buccolingual dimension of the alveolar ridge, (3) determining the proper position of the implant, (4) fabricating the surgical guide, (5) fabricating the provisional restoration, and (6) performing surgical placement of the implant followed by immediate placement of the provisional restoration.
Copyright 2003 by The American College of Prosthodontists.