The periodontal prosthesis mode of transition to an implant-supported dentition

In recent years, implant-supported reconstructions have become a welcome alternative to dentures for those who have lost their natural dentition. While the benefits of the final implant-supported reconstruction may be obvious, the planning and execution of therapy to achieve this result may be bewildering to many dentists. Four main modes of transfer have evolved: an uncontrolled or "haphazard" transition; the traditional "dentures first" mode, an immediate transition, and a staged transition. This article proposes an additional mode of transition called periodontal prosthesis, which has the potential to make the transition process smoother and more predictable while providing optimal retention of alveolar supporting structures and generating optimal esthetics.