Multidisciplinary implant dentistry for improved aesthetics and function

Functional and aesthetic restorations that involve implant-supported prostheses rely on the efforts of a multidisciplinary team composed of surgeon, prosthodontist, and laboratory technician. The team must examine the anticipated restorative site to determine the suitability of existing hard and soft tissues for implant placement. When the site requires osseous or gingival augmentation, the team must select the appropriate means of restoration from the armamentarium. This article describes chronologically the various parameters that must be considered by each member of the team as the treatment proceeds.