Classification system for maxillary fixed dental prostheses

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• Existing fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) classification systems lack detail for maxillary prostheses.
• Advancements in implant dentistry necessitate updated classification for full-arch restorations.
• Understanding gingival contours is crucial for aesthetic and functional outcomes in implant prostheses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an addendum to the existing FDPs classification system for maxillary prostheses.
• To identify relationships between FP-1 fixed prostheses designs and clinical interdental gingival contours.
• To provide an improved communication aid for clinicians, patients, and laboratory technicians regarding implant fixed complete dentures.

Main Methods:

• Clinical and laboratory descriptions of full-arch fixed prostheses with photographic illustrations.
• Explanation of benefits and limitations of various prosthetic designs.
• Illustration of surgical differences in alveolectomy and presentation of a clinical case.

Main Results:

• A new classification system for maxillary implant fixed complete dentures (FP-1 ceramic implant-supported fixed prostheses - CISFPs) is presented.
• The system aids communication regarding design options, materials, and restorative space considerations.
• FP-1 CISFPs aim to preserve and rehabilitate gingival soft tissues, mimicking natural dentitions.

Conclusions:

• FP-1 CISFPs offer a near-natural look, feel, and function for edentulous patients.
• Aesthetic outcomes are variable and influenced by multiple factors.
• The presented classification system incorporates papilla height levels for FP-1 CISFPs.