This case report presents a maxillary implant retained hybrid denture opposing mandibular natural teeth. This hybrid denture is a restoration that porcelain fabricated over a metal framework and retained by screws threaded into the implant abutments.
Method:
A 50 year-old male patient was referred to our clinic. After the examinations, the soft and hard tissue level at the lip line could cause aesthetical problems, thus a maxillary implant retained hybrid denture was planned to avoid aesthetical problems. A total of six implants were placed in the maxillary arch at the lateral, canine and premolar regions. After healing, the soft tissue around the abutments reformed by using diode laser. After that final impressions were taken and the framework produced. The framework fit was checked and refined until it seated passively on the abutments. At the final session the prosthesis was inserted by 35 N/cm torque after verification of aesthetic, occlusion, retention, and stability.
Result:
The implant supported hybrid prosthesis replaces not only the dentition but also the soft tissue. After 3 years of follow up, no biological or biomechanical complications was observed. No significant marginal bone loss was detected at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months follow-ups.
Conclusion:
The rehabilitation of edentulous patients with implant supported hybrid dentures has been observed to achieve greater masticatory function and psychological satisfaction than with conventional overdentures, especially when opposing natural teeth, because of gaining more stability and retention. The passive fit of the framework is the key point and it can result in non-binding, fully seated prostheses.