Alternative Fixed-Prosthesis Solution for Edentulism: Laboratory Evaluation and Clinical Application

Objectives: Overview: Recently, the OT Bridge technique was introduced as fixed prosthetic solution for edentulous patients, especially in presence of tilted implants. Our aim was to in vitro investigate the mechanical and surface characteristics of the system’s components and to present a clinical case where the system was used.
Methods: Methods: The OT Bridge system (Rhein 83) is constituted of an extragrade titanium abutment and an acetalic seeger ring. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses were conducted to evaluate the tightness of the system’s components. The surface characteristics of the seeger were also evaluated before and after immersing the ring in water for 1 week. Clinically, the technique was considered as the therapeutic solution of a 47 yr-old female patient disappointing with her smile esthetic and complaining pain and teeth mobility. After data recording and clinical and radiological examinations, treatment plan consisted in: 1) upper immediate complete denture (CD), and lower immediate peri-overdenture (3.3 and 4.3); 2) Second temporary upper CD and lower peri-overdenture after healing to test daily performances an aesthetics; 3) after 1 yr, final rehabilitation was performed with upper CD and lower fixed-implant-supported prosthesis using the OT Bridge system and following a digital workflow. The patient gave her informed consent to the photographical documentation.
Results: Results: SEM analyses revealed tight connections between the system’s components. The seeger presented a regular and smooth surface with no voids or irregularities even after immersion in water. Up to 4 yrs follow-up, the patient was satisfied with the esthetics and function and no pain or complications were reported.
Conclusions: Conclusions: After attentive evaluation of patients’ conditions and therapeutic possibilities, the OT Bridge system could be suggested as an alternative treatment option to create passive and screwed dentures. The presence of the seeger could help to overcome implant disparallelisms, thus increasing the esthetic results.