title: Techniques to facilitate provisionalization of implant restorations.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this article was to review current methods for immediate provisionalization of single unit implant restorations.
  
  
  METHODS
  Four methods are discussed and illustrated in detail, including: preoperative preparation of an abutment and provisional crown using diagnostic models; abutment placement and modification at the time of implant placement; the use of 1-piece or non-prepable abutments; and methods of indexing. Material characteristics for indexing are presented to provide the clinician with an understanding of material handling in relation to accuracy of indexing.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Depending on clinician and patient case specific criteria, immediate provisionalization of implant restorations can be performed in an efficient manner.
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthodontics, Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, 1100 Florida Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA.
authors.forename: Paulino
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Castellon
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Casadaban
authors.forename: Michael S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Block
mesh_terms: D000044:Dental Abutments; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous / Q000379:methods*; D019250:Dental Implants, Single-Tooth; D003794:Dental Restoration, Temporary / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D013997:Time Factors