Mandibular Implant-supported Overdenture as an Occlusion-guide for Maxillary Fixed Implant Prosthesis: A Clinical Report

Abstract

Unlike natural teeth, osseointegrated implants react bio mecha­ nically in a different fashion to occlusal load due to lack of the periodontal ligament. Hence, the dental implants may be more prone to occlusal overloading, which is often regarded as one of the potential causes for peri­implant bone loss and failure of the implant/implant prosthesis. Stability of the intercuspal position and reduction of lateral forces are impor­ tant aspects when providing occlusal equilibration for implant­ supported prosthesis. Multiple missing teeth in maxillary and mandibular arches with disturbed occlusal plane due to long­term edentulous condition and overeruption of remaining teeth into the edentulous spaces is the challenging clinical situation. This article describes the management of a patient with multiple missing teeth in both the arches with mandibular implant­supported overdenture and maxillary implant supported fixed prosthesis. The sequence of the treatment planning is highlighted to manage the complex situation to achieve the best predictable occlusion.