Computerized occlusal management of a fixed/detachable implant prosthesis

The long-term success of an implant-supported prosthesis is related to the management of occlusal forces upon the restoration. Since implants are not anchored in bone with periodontal ligament proprioceptors, subjective confirmation by the patient is not always an accurate means of determining occlusion. A computerized occlusal analysis system has been developed to determine the timing and nature of the occlusal forces on tooth contacts. This article details the implementation of this system as an aid in the occlusal adjustment procedure of an implant-supported fixed/detachable prosthesis.