Until now, implants have been almost exclusively the domain of specialists, and consequently many general practitioners have been reluctant to offer this treatment modality to those patients who can most benefit from it. This book seeks to bridge this gap by offering the dentist a well-defined role in the use of implants for achieving predictable restorative results. It presents a clear and easy-to-use system that will allow general practitioners to identify those patients who are suitable candidates for implant therapy. Successful, predictable implant treatment requires identification of specific risk factors--general, esthetic, biomechanical--that may lead to complications and failure. During the treatment-planning process, the dentist can define and evaluate the impact of these various risk factors, and modify treatment accordingly. The risk factors and limitations specific to all types of edentulism and each particular clinical situation are described in detail, and the safest treatment options, as well as alternative solutions, are given for each. Different surgical protocols are also presented, and the importance of communicating openly with patients is stressed.

ISBN: 0-86715-3555
176pp: 378 illus (267 in color)

Table of Contents:
1. General Risk Factors
2. Esthetic Risk Factors
3. Biomechanical Risk Factors
4. Treatment of the Edentulous Patient
5. Treatment Sequence and Planning Protocol
6. Patient Relations
7. Complications