Lower Metal Frame on Locator Abutment
Time to complete the case – 2 clinical visits (12 working days):
- Take implant level impression, record the bite and send the impression to the lab with the impression coping
- Fit appointment
Laboratory stages
- Order laboratory analogue, locator abutment & Male Processing Package
- Cast the impressions with gingival mask
- Design & construct uni-lateral metal framework with a clear clasp
- Mount the models on an articulator using the supplied bite
- Wax up two teeth, and design the denture
- Finish the denture in pink veined acrylic
- The Dentist has opted for the lab to place the female housing in the denture. Cold cure the female metal housing in the anatomical fitting surface of the denture & check it locates with abutment on the model perfectly
- Send to surgery for fit appointment
Advantages
- Cost effective
- Quick to make
- Easy to clean, the patient can remove the denture and clean it thoroughly
- Fully functional
- Dentures have been shown to improve self-esteem in patients
- Dentures support bone structure and facial muscles, thus decreasing the likelihood of bone recession
- A small uni-lateral denture is easy and comfortable to wear, it will not impair the patient’s speech
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for all patients as there is a risk of swallowing small appliances
- Easily discoloured from coffee, wine or cigarettes
- The material absorbs scents
- It may affect the taste of food
- Least aesthetic option as denture teeth do not replicate patient’s anatomy
- In future the denture may become loose and will require modifications
