The surgical template: a prescription for implant success

The surgical template is utilized in the planning and execution of a successful implant rehabilitation. A method of template fabrication is presented which is useful for cases requiring precise root form fixture placement. Stents are fabricated using a duplicate denture or acrylic base and orthodontic wire, which is contoured to create the acceptable perimetric limits of fixture placement. This approach provides good visual access, operator flexibility, and template stability. The technique can be utilized for the edentulous and the partially edentulous arch.