Tissue volume considerations in implant prosthodontics

The replacement of intraoral hard and soft tissue is dependent on careful dimensional consideration. The prosthetic phase of implant treatment frequently involves the restoration of significant amounts of hard and soft tissue in addition to teeth. Although similarities to both tooth-supported fixed prostheses and removable prostheses exist, implant-supported fixed prostheses engender unique problems with respect to prosthetic contours.

This article depicts diagnostic methods used to compare anticipated prosthesis volume with existing clinical conditions. The proper functional, esthetic, and biomechanical design of the definitive prosthesis will be shown to relate directly to understanding these dimensional requirements.