Alternative complete-arch cement-retained implant-supported fixed partial denture

Abstract

Early implant prostheses designs, which used screw-retained metal and acrylic resin structures, frequently left a space between the prosthesis and the soft tissue. Common deficiencies of this design included phonetic and esthetic problems and screw loosening. Cement-retained implant prostheses are also used in partially and completely edentulous patients, and are thought to have optimal occlusion and esthetics. Moreover, cement-retained prostheses may induce less stress on the implant, thereby maximizing the possibility of a passive fit. Porcelain fused to metal prostheses have been used mostly in partially edentulous situations. Recently, complete-arch porcelain fused to metal prostheses that replace hard and soft tissue have been used and, although this restoration can have excellent esthetics, there are disadvantages such as high cost, potential framework distortion during fabrication, and difficulty in repairing fractures of in-service porcelain. This article describes an alternative technique for the fabrication of a complete-arch, cement-retained, metal-acrylic resin implant-supported fixed partial denture. When compared with porcelain fused to metal complete-arch restorations, this prostheses is esthetic, has excellent retention and stability, yet is relatively inexpensive to fabricate, and requires less laboratory skill.