Patient evaluation and prosthodontic treatment planning for osseointegrated implants

This article describes the pertinent medical and dental indications and contraindications for implant-supported prostheses. The importance of a thorough clinical investigation as well as the evaluation of appropriate radiographs and diagnostic casts prior to surgical intervention is emphasized. The cooperation of the surgeon and prosthodontist is essential for implant success; their appropriate roles are discussed. The various prosthetic options are evaluated with emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages of each. Those factors that create the ideal implant candidate are reviewed along with corrective measures that would be required to improve the condition of those patients who are not ideal candidates for implants.