The scientific literature shows that short implants with a length of ≥ 6 mm are able to support prosthetics in the edentulous mandible. After tooth removal the mandible displays different degrees of atrophy (Fig 1&2). Regarding hard tissue management...
3-D imaging seems the best option unless clinical examination reveals an ample bone volume. The bone quality can be derived from density measurements if CT scan images are available or approximately from the trabecular pattern of 2-D images. Pano....
In the edentulous upper jaw implant insertion can be limited due to the adjacent anatomical structures (nasal floor, maxillary sinus). Less than 5-6 mm in height and 6 mm in width requires augmentation before implant placement....
Conceptually, a provisional prosthesis for an edentulous patient is a convenient tool that offers the patient a satisfactory level of function and esthetic appearance while definitive treatment is undertaken...