One goal of prosthetic rehabilitation using dental implants for the edentulous patient is longevity of therapy. Implant health and prosthesis integrity influence the longevity of therapy. This presentation will examine the clinician's selection of different materials in the construction of full-arch, implant-supported prostheses. The relative advantages and disadvantages of monolithic zirconia, conventional metal/processed acrylic hybrid prostheses, and digital metal/milled acrylic hybrid prostheses will be considered. One material may not be ideal for every clinical scenario and certain selection criteria will be identified. By case presentation, the selection and application of monolithic zircona, conventional, and digital metal/acrylic hybrid prostheses in the restoration of implant supported fixed prostheses will be considered. The importance of choosing a desired material at the time of treatment planning will be underscored and highlight the need for careful surgical planning of implants in the process of designing the prosthesis using one or another material. Ultimately, achieving therapeutic longevity requires careful planning and application of materials ideally suited for esthetic, functional and biologic (hygienic) functions over time. Existing materials, when used properly, can offer satisfaction to both patients and clinicians.
Learning Objectives:
Be able to identify the range of materials available for implant restoration of the edentulous patient
Understand how implant placement decisions impact the mechanical features of implant prostheses and the materials of which they are made
Appreciate the importance of treatment planning in the process of selecting materials for implant-supported prostheses when treating the edentulous patient
