Alternate functional impression technique for implant-retained overdentures

Abstract

An overdenture impression must record the soft tissue supporting areas simultaneously with accurate positioning of the implant components. 1 Hussaini S. Wong T. One clinical visit for a multiple implant restoration master cast fabrication. J Prosthet Dent. 1997; 78: 550-553 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (21) Google Scholar Three types of impression techniques have been described in the literature. A single-stage impression procedure is commonly used with either an open or closed tray technique. 2 De La Cruz J.E. Funkenbusch P.D. Ercoli C. Moss M.E. Graser G.N. Tallents R.H. Verification jig for implant-supported prostheses: a comparison of standard impressions with verification jigs made of different materials. J Prosthet Dent. 2002; 88: 329-336 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (72) Google Scholar , 3 Ganddini M.R. Schejtman N. Ercoli C. Graser G.N. Prosthodontic application for implant carriers. J Prosthet Dent. 2004; 92: 399-402 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (6) Google Scholar A double-impression technique for overdentures retained by only 2 implants has been suggested, using a zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) impression paste and polyether impression material. 4 Mericske-Stern R.D. Taylor T.D. Belser U. Management of the edentulous patient. Clin Oral Implants Res. 2000; 11: 108-125 Crossref PubMed Google Scholar The third type of impression technique is a functional impression technique for implant-retained overdentures. 5 Uludag B. Sahin V. A functional impression technique for an implant-supported overdenture: a clinical report. J Oral Implantol. 2006; 32: 41-43 Crossref PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar Double and functional impression techniques are not considered for overdentures retained by more than 2 implants. 4 Mericske-Stern R.D. Taylor T.D. Belser U. Management of the edentulous patient. Clin Oral Implants Res. 2000; 11: 108-125 Crossref PubMed Google Scholar , 5 Uludag B. Sahin V. A functional impression technique for an implant-supported overdenture: a clinical report. J Oral Implantol. 2006; 32: 41-43 Crossref PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar , 6 Uludag B. Celik G. An alternative impression technique for implant-retained overdentures. J Prosthet Dent. 2006; 96: 377-378 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (4) Google Scholar An implant-retained overdenture has characteristics resembling those of a complete denture, with a combination of tissue support and implant retention. 4 Mericske-Stern R.D. Taylor T.D. Belser U. Management of the edentulous patient. Clin Oral Implants Res. 2000; 11: 108-125 Crossref PubMed Google Scholar Thus, resilience difference between implant and mucosa should be considered for the impression of implant-tissue-retained overdentures. 6 Uludag B. Celik G. An alternative impression technique for implant-retained overdentures. J Prosthet Dent. 2006; 96: 377-378 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (4) Google Scholar The functional impression technique records the mucosa in a functional state and simultaneously records the implant components in relation to the alveolar tissues. The primary advantage of this technique is to provide the accurate relation of the implant components and the supporting tissues. After insertion of the prosthesis, chair time decreases for postinsertion adjustments. 5 Uludag B. Sahin V. A functional impression technique for an implant-supported overdenture: a clinical report. J Oral Implantol. 2006; 32: 41-43 Crossref PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar However, the procedure is technique sensitive in recording the border relation with different impression materials, and it is more time consuming compared with the single-stage impression. This article describes an alternative functional impression technique to fabricate implant-retained maxillary overdenture with a bar design.