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Treatment guidelines

Direct to implant vs. abutment

Key points

  • A prosthesis directly supported by implants is indicated when inter-arch distance is limited
  • A prosthesis supported by abutments is indicated when implant angulation needs to be corrected, especially for screw-retained prosthesis designs
  • Abutments designed for cement-retained restorations are preferred in situations where an access screw hole is not desired
  • For a prosthesis directly supported by implants, soft tissues around implants must be carefully manipulated during impression and trial placement appointments

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Additional resources

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Videos

Stefan Holst: Prosthetic considerations for edentulous patients

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