Fabrication of a surgical template for implant/bar-retained mandibular overdentures

To achieve long-term success with an implant-retained overdenture, application of force in the path of insertion of the prosthesis has been recommended. This implies that the retentive matrices and the implants are positioned parallel to each other and to the path of insertion of the prosthesis. This article describes a technique for the fabrication of a surgical template for an implant-retained overdenture in the mandible. Adherence to the guidelines proposed in this article will lead to optimal implant placement in a consistent and repeatable manner.