Post-surgical panoramic x-ray. The implants did not have sufficient insertion torque (stability) to have a fixed temporary bridge. She wore a temporary complete denture for 3 months. This is rare but some patients have lower bone density than others.
3-months after implant surgery we are ready to “uncover” the implants and fabricate a fixed temporary bridge. Frontal view.
3-months after implant surgery we are ready to “uncover” the implants and fabricate a fixed temporary bridge. Occlusal view. Not, one implant is visible after healing.
A careful incision is made to maximize the amount of keratinized tissue (gingiva) in front of the implants. Impression posts are placed.
A high speed handpiece with a diamond bur is used to shape the recipient sites for the pontics (non-implant supported teeth).
In a few hours, a handmade temporary bridge is fabricated from acrylic resin. Note the convex contours for shaping the tissues and for easy cleaning.
Temporary bridge, intaglio (tissue) view
Temporary bridge in place on the day of uncovering surgery.
Temporary bridge 2 years later. This patient did her treatment over several years as funds became available. If patients don’t mistreat their temporary bridges we can protract treatment. This allows patients to choose higher quality treatment and work finances around that treatment. Win/win!
Zirconia dental implant bridge (FP-1)
Note the convex contours that “insert” into the pre-shaped tissues. This facilitates improved cleaning and less food impaction.
