Strategic Placement of Implants for the Future

Background

Often, the simplest of dental implant treatment can help our dentally compromised patients. The partially edentulous patient is the perfect example of someone who is often overlooked, but whose quality of life can be immediately improved. While it is always wise to keep any healthy teeth in a partially edentulous patient, it is also prudent to consider the possible limited future of those teeth.

Issues for the partially edentulous patient

• Esthetics (clasps)

• Teeth that may not securely retain a partial denture

• Possible limited funds for complete rehabilitation

• Psychologically not ready to lose any remaining teeth

Planning for the patient's future

The best treatment plans look into the patient's future. Most partial denture wearers meet the criteria for two implants. If two implants are strategically positioned, the partially edentulous patient's future needs can be met if and when they are ready for a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Example of strategically placed implants

• Sites A + E: 2 implants, as a start, for retaining a partial denture.

• If and when all remaining teeth are removed, an implant at Site C will convert the case to an implant-supported overdenture.

• Alternatively, additional implants at Sites B, C + D will allow for a fixed prosthetic solution.