A precision alignment frame for endosseous post dental implants.

Abstract

The advantages of the precision alignment frame are that it (1) accurately positions and aligns the initial pilot drill at implant surgery, (2) has no adverse effects on the diagnostic cast, (3) eliminates the need for an incision or raising a flap when locating a submerged implant root for transmucosal connection, (4) consistently and accurately records the relation of the implant root to the radiograph, (5) permits long-term evaluation of the implant after restoration, (6) has components that are readily obtainable and inexpensive, and (7) is easily made. With a PAF, accurate placement of an implant can be routinely achieved without drill alignment changes. This is especially important when multiple implants are being placed to support a long framework. In most implant sites, the PAF will record the entire image of the implant on the radiograph. However, patients with advanced alveolar bone resorption, flat or narrow vaults in the premaxilla, or high muscle attachments to the mandible may yield only a coronal image of the implant root on the radiograph. In those patients, the PAF is valuable in evaluating early bone healing and remodeling at the permucosal and neck areas.