Indexing and provisional restoration of single implants.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to provide a review of provisional implant restorations and surgical indexing procedures for partially edentulous patients.


METHODS
Case studies will be presented that illustrate the interim restoration of dental implants including stock healing abutments, premachined titanium abutments, resin polymer abutments, and acid etch composite resin pontics. Single stage, immediate, and immediate nonocclusal loading protocols will be illustrated.


RESULTS
All of the implants illustrated in this report were clinically successful.


CONCLUSIONS
Provisional restoration of implants is an important part of overall implant treatment for both esthetic and functional concerns. Implants may be loaded with functional occlusion at various time intervals postimplant placement depending on implant manufacturer, implant design, quality, and quantity of bone with high levels of implant survival.
del Castillo
Robert
R
7735 NW 146th Street, Suite 104, Miami Lakes, FL 33016, USA. drperio@bellsouth.net
Drago
Carl
C
D000044:Dental Abutments; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D019250:Dental Implants, Single-Tooth; D003794:Dental Restoration, Temporary / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007576:Jaw, Edentulous, Partially / Q000601:surgery*; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery; D013997:Time Factors; D016474:Weight-Bearing