Fabrication of an implant surgical guide using a denture replica technique

The outcome of the prosthodontic phase of implant treatment is affected by the position of implant fixtures within the dental supporting tissues; therefore, surgical guides are often used to facilitate ideal fixture placement. This article describes the fabrication and modification of a wax replica of the patient's existing prosthesis, which is converted into a surgical guide. This approach permits accurate fixture placement relative to planned tooth positions in the implant-supported prosthesis, without the need to fabricate a new conventional denture prior to surgery.