The use of stereolithographic surgical templates in oral implantology

Aim: The aim of this report is to analyze how to obtain a truly immediate loading in complete edentulous patients, using a dedicated software that provides beforehand both the information for a guided implant placement and the creation of a temporary prosthesis. Material of Study: A CT scan was taken with a complete radiopaque scan prosthesis; CT data were imported in the software to plan the exact position of the implants. Following these guidelines a mucosa-supported surgical template was developed. A flapless implant site preparation was performed. 22 implants were placed in a complete edentulous patient. The abutments were positioned and the impressions for the final restoration were taken. The patient received immediately the temporary prosthesis that was prepared prior to the surgery in the dental laboratory. Results and Discussion: Due to the flapless surgery, post-operative swelling and pain are limited. The computer-aided planning and the template guided surgery allow us to place a temporary fixed prosthesis within hours and an aesthetic and functional final restoration within some days.