The planning stage begins with knowing where the final tooth position is located. If there is inadequate bone, current bone grafting techniques can usually resolve the problem.
Sinus Augmentation: A key to implant success is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed. The upper back jaw has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation can help correct this problem by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants.
Ridge Modification: Deformities in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with inadequate bone in which to place dental implants. To correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose the bony defect. The defect is then filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve appearance and increase your chances for successful implants that can last for years to come.
Normally, the prosthodontist designs a placement guide for the surgeon that indicates the ideal position and angulation of the implant. The ideal position for an implant is determined by the ideal tooth position and the prosthodontist is most expert in that decision.
