A device to improve fabrication of a conversion prosthesis for immediate loading of dental implants

A common challenge of fabricating a conversion prosthesis for immediate loading of dental implants is preventing the acrylic resin from flowing over the polished metal cuff of the titanium cylinders. Excess acrylic resin that accidentally flows over the polished metal cuff and adheres to it can impede insertion and the proper fit of the conversion prosthesis after surgery. Subsequent removal of the excess acrylic resin using rotary or hand instruments can scratch and damage the polished metal cuff, resulting in increased plaque accumulation and subsequent inflammation and the potential for hard and soft tissue loss during the early stages of healing. This article describes a novel device, a conversion cap, that can be screwed into the titanium cylinders to prevent any acrylic resin from flowing over the polished metal cuff. In addition, it can be attached during finishing and polishing the conversion prosthesis or definitive prosthesis to eliminate any risk of scratches over the metal cuff and allow dental laboratory technicians and clinicians to improve the quality of the prostheses.