Teeth loss in the maxilla initiates residual ridge/alveolar resorption, especially in the anterior region, which is flared labially. The consequences of this resorption is a gradual medial or palatal shift of the crest of the maxilla. This...

The primary goal is a proper oral function. This implies not only chewing but also speaking, smiling. Patients’ adaptability varies enormously. Some are satisfied with removable dentures, others object to the esthetics of...

The choice of anesthesia depends on many variables including the complexity of treatment, duration of treatment, need for patient awareness and the response during treatment, only to name a few. In general, the clinician and patient should discuss the...

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...

There are three main indications for grafting from an anatomical perspective...

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....

Teeth extractions are followed by a reduction of the bucco-lingual as well as the vertical dimension of the residual alveolar ridge. The ensuing resorption is progressive and even the basal jaw may become involved. In the lower jaw, the....

As described in Patient Assessment, a thorough evaluation of patient factors influencing whether to proceed with surgical therapy is relevant.
Depending on the tpe of surgery prescribe pre-operative medication (for example antibiotic coverage), if...

Physiological salivary output is 0.75 to 1.5 liters per day, with most originating from the submandibular glands. Saliva is a lubricant and has a complex set of protective and healing functions for the oral cavity. It adheres instantly to...

Epithelial desquamation in the oropharynx limits bacterial accumulation, except on the tongue dorsum and in the tonsillar crypts. Loss of teeth dramatically reduces the load of periodontal pathogens except for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and to a...

A universally accepted definition of ideal occlusion has been elusive. This is because an ideal occlusion can only be defined in broad terms of a physiological range of form and function. Functional aspects of occlusion, rather than specific anatomical...

Saliva plays a significant role in the preservation and maintenance of oral health and function. It supports digestion by preparing food for mastication and swallowing, contributes to taste perception, facilitates speech communication and provides oral tissues...

Examination of existing dentures provides invaluable information on patients’ perceptions of teeth and soft tissue esthetics, including facial vertical dimension support. It also informs clinicians regarding their patients’ overall...

Routine evaluation of a patient’s temporo-mandibular joint function is an integral part of any oral examination.
Moreover, good muscular control and painless coordination of jaw movements are desirable in the management of edentulism...