JOURNAL OF PROSTHETIC DENTISTRY THE

Vol. 100 No. 3      SEPTEMBER - 2008

ISSN: 0022-3913      UBIC: 171

RESUMEN

Computer-guided flapless surgery for implant placement using stereolithographic templates is gaining popularity. The advantages of this surgical protocol are its minimally invasive nature, accuracy of implant placement, predictability, and reduced time required for definitive rehabilitation. One of the disadvantages, however, pertains to complete arch implant rehabilitation. An existing protocol for complete arch flapless computer-guided implant surgery necessitates the patient to be rendered completely edentulous and to wear a removable complete denture for varying periods of time. This may be objectionable to the patient. This article illustrates a technique which uses a modified radiographic template to overcome this limitation. The patient may have a tooth-supported or implant-supported fixed interim prosthesis during the entire rehabilitation process. (J Prosthet Dent 2008; 100:232-235)

SUMMARY

A novel technique using a radio-graphic template and computerized tomography, 3-D surgical planning software, and a stereolithographic surgical template to guide the implant placement with a flapless approach is described. Tooth support coupled with support from the hard palate provides additional stability for the radiographic template. Anchor stabilization pins can also be included in the virtual implant planning for additional stability.

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