Procedure to predictably seat multiple, hexed abutments onto endosseous implants: a clinical report

The use of implants to restore the dentition of partially edentulous patients has increased over the past several years. Optimal esthetic results depend on satisfactory implant placement. Occasionally, implants are placed in less than optimal positions, which may require modification in the prosthesis design and increase the technical difficulty. In these instances, preangled or customized abutments can be used. If more than one of these abutments has to be used, accurate orientation of the hexed components to the implants and each other may be a problem. This clinical report illustrated a simple, inexpensive procedure to transfer the orientation of two or more hexed abutments from a master cast to the mouth. This procedure reduced the time needed to orient the hexed abutments correctly in laboratory and clinical situations. It may also reduce the chances of the patient aspirating or swallowing abutments or screws.