Complex fixed implant-supported restoration in a site compromised by periodontitis: a case report

Periodontal disease presents a big challenge for clinicians placing dental implants. Besides the implant treatment, additional surgical procedures such as grafting or sinus floor elevation are often necessary to achieve a satisfactory result. Patient compliance is also important for achieving long-term treatment success. In the case presented here, digital planning and computer-aided surgery facilitated placement of the implants and fabrication of the prosthetic superstructures. The patient then wore 187 metal-based provisional fixed partial dentures (FPDs) for about a year, while her compliance and oral hygiene were evaluated. During this period, the occlusal relations remained stable and the good condition of the hard and soft tissue was maintained. In the maxilla, the final restoration incorporated custom zirconia abutments and a zirconia framework fabricated using CAD/CAM technology. Titanium abutments and a cast non-precious metal framework were fabricated for the mandible. [GRAPHICS]