Predicting the final result in implant-supported fixed restorations for completely edentulous patients

Predicting the final result is a very important factor in implant restorations. When a fixed implant-supported restoration is planned for the restoration of completely edentulous patients, it is important to recognize the esthetic performance of the prosthesis in the initial stages. Bone resorbtion may result in an unfavorable interarch relationship, and soft tissue support may be needed. A detailed presurgical evaluation (including tooth setup, construction of radiological and surgical guide) is needed to ensure the placement of implants in prosthetically favored positions. In this paper, a technique is presented where a detailed wax-up of the restoration is accomplished on provisional implant abutments and tried on the patient after implant placement. This setup may offer valuable information on the expected lip support and the need of gingiva-colored ceramic. In this way, the esthetic result can be evaluated at early stages before any irreversible laboratory stages are performed and needed corrections can be done accordingly.

In extended implant-supported fixed restorations, it is very important to predict the final esthetic result at an early stage. The presented technique allows a safe and accurate evaluation of the expected esthetic result before any construction stage.