The Immediate Provisional Hybrid

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A growing population of patients are missing some or all of their teeth. In the past, the only treatment option for patients whose dental health had deteriorated to this extreme was a partial or full denture.

Unfortunately, the replacement of natural teeth with dentures is commonly associated with some undesirable physical and emotional changes. Patients who had all of their teeth removed and and replaced with an immediate denture frequently found the abrupt transition very difficult. As soon as the teeth are removed, the constant stimulation to the bone once provided by chewing no longer occurs, and the bone and tissue structures that once supported the teeth begin to resorb (figure 1).

Over time, changes in the mouth can cause dentures to fit poorly, creating uncomfortable pressure on gum tissues. Many denture wearers experience difficulty with maintaining a proper diet because eating is associated with denture pain or discomfort. Dentures can also interfere with speech and cause social embarrassment when they slip unexpectedly. In the long-term, most patients have found dentures to be a less than satisfactory solution.

EARLY IMPLANT METHODS

Dental implant technology has undergone significant evolution. In the early days, the dentist refracted the gum tissue to visualize the bony anatomy. This visual assessment and strategic implant placement was critical in order to avoid nerves and ensure proper position and function of the final replacement teeth. (Visual assessment yields less predictable results when there is extensive bone loss or when multiple implants are planned.)

The implants were then left undisturbed for six to nine months to allow the titanium implant posts to form a secure bond with the jawbone. During the six months or so while the titanium bonded to the bone, the patient either went without teeth or continued to wear the old dentures. In a second procedure, the implants were uncovered and the posts were attached. The teeth were then affixed to those posts.

With the development of dental implants, dentists are able to offer a superior alternative to the conventional partial or full denture. Additionally, new improved implant procedures have been developed and refined in response to the demand for greater accuracy and shortened treatment time. These new procedures enable the restoring dentist to place dental implants and attach replacement teeth in the same visit.