Fabricating low-fusing metal casts for more accurate implant prosthodontics

An important factor that affects the clinical success of dental implants is the way stresses are transferred to the bone via the implant framework and fixture. An ill-fitting implant framework will contribute to these stresses and may result in catastrophic failure of the prosthesis or one of the components and/or fixtures, in addition to possible alveolar bone loss. Many factors may contribute to the difficulty of achieving a passive fit on a complete-arch implant framework. A technique for producing an accurate master cast by using a low-fusing metal is described. The low-fusing metal is dimensionally more accurate than conventional gypsum products. The technique does not require a significant change from conventional chairside and laboratory procedures for complete-arch master cast impressions, and should result in a more passively fitting framework.