Periodontal considerations in preparation for fixed and removable prosthodontics

This article has presented many of the newer concepts and techniques that have been developed to treat a problem that has been of major concern to the prosthodontist: the problem of favorable periodontal support and poor or deformed edentulous ridges. In the past, dentists were not aware, or did not believe, that it was possible to reconstruct ridge deformities, and they resorted to prosthetic solutions to solve the problems of tissue reconstruction, function, and aesthetics. New procedures and concepts permit us to extend the range of therapy and hope we are able to offer our patients. It is probably true that prosthodontists are more sensitive to the emotional concerns and needs of patients that have sustained ridge-jaw deformities. These patients bear deep emotional scars. They feel cast apart from "normal" society. Successful treatment for these patients not only restores their deformed ridge and dentition, it helps to erase the mental scars and emotional trauma these patients have had to accept. These procedures enable us to restore their sense of self-confidence and dignity.