Replacement of missing maxillary canines with dental implants: prosthesis design considerations.

Replacement of missing maxillary canines with dental implants: prosthesis design considerations.
October 1, 2004
By A Sadan, MB Blatz, DN Dederich, and M Bellerino; Department of Restorative and General Dentistry, Case School of Dental Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4905, USA.
Pract Proced Aesthet Dent
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Abstract
lacing a missing canine with a dental implant is the optimal treatment plan. The strategic roles canines play in maintaining normal function and the high visibility of these teeth, especially in the maxilla, require a restoration that provides uncompromised function and aesthetics. Eliminating lateral forces on the implant can minimize implant complications, but in young patients (ie, with steep canine guidance) achieving such a goal presents a restorative challenge. This article discusses several considerations (ie, ease of maintenance, retrievability) that will affect the design of the definitive restoration.