Provisional prostheses during ridge augmentation and implant dentistry

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Surgery

Background:

• Advancements in ridge augmentation and bone regeneration increase eligibility for dental implants.
• Managing patients during the critical wound healing phase requires careful consideration of temporary prostheses.
• The selection of an appropriate provisional prosthesis is crucial for patient comfort and successful treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize information on provisional prostheses for dental implant patients undergoing ridge augmentation and bone regeneration.
• To compare tooth-supported and soft tissue-supported provisional prostheses.
• To provide guidance for restorative dentists in selecting the optimal provisional prosthesis based on patient needs, advantages, disadvantages, indications, and contraindications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of available information on provisional prostheses in the context of dental implantology.
• Analysis of tooth-supported provisional prostheses.
• Analysis of soft tissue-supported provisional prostheses.

Main Results:

• Provisional prostheses are essential during the healing phase after ridge augmentation and bone regeneration procedures.
• Both tooth-supported and soft tissue-supported provisional prostheses have distinct advantages and disadvantages.
• Specific indications and contraindications exist for each type of provisional prosthesis, influencing the choice for optimal patient care.

Conclusions:

• The choice of provisional prosthesis depends on individual patient factors and treatment goals.
• Careful consideration of the pros and cons of each prosthesis type is necessary for successful implant therapy.
• This review aids restorative dentists in making informed decisions regarding provisional restorations for patients receiving dental implants.