CHAPTER 20
Technical Procedures
20.1 INTRODUCTION
An effective relationship between the clinical dental team and the technician is essential when providing successful treatment. This involves the use of surgical guides and the fabrication and placement of a passively seated stress‐distributing restoration [1].
The technical procedures involved in implant dentistry are complex, but when carried out precisely using the appropriate materials, many of the associated complications are avoided.
Prior to their clinical application implant components, materials and technical protocols have to demonstrate suitable durability in laboratory studies. However, they are not subject to the same scientific scrutiny through clinical studies. Care must therefore be taken when interpreting the scientific evidence.
20.2 COMMUNICATION
The success of implant‐supported restorations is dependent on effective communication between the clinical team and the dental laboratory [1]. Much of this is relayed in the form of a digital intra‐oral scan or a conventional impression and a bite registration. These need to be accurate and of an appropriate quality and material (B).
| Aspirational | Basic | Conditional |
|---|---|---|
| The patient and technical team are engaged and involved in the implant restoration. The technician is present at the relevant appointments. (ii) | Have effective methods to communicate between the laboratory and the clinic. (i) | Ensure the patient is clear as to the roles of the team members. (i) |
| Communication between the patient, the clinic and the laboratory is documented, recorded and audited. (ii) | Demonstrate appropriate patient confidentiality protocols are in place, including data protection for digital transfer. (i) | |
| There is a governance and compliance protocol in place to ensure the laboratory is appropriately selected for undertaking implant restorations. (iii) | Issue the patient with the relevant certification and guarantee in accordance with governance protocols. (i) |
Furthermore, technical issues need patient input, for example when determining the shade of the prosthesis or ensuring clear phonetics. There must also be clear channels of communication between the patient and technician (B).
20.3 RESTORATIVE DESIGN
The aim of implant dentistry is to create invisible, functional restorations with biomimetic properties and a natural emergence and appearance.
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