Treatment planning complications and surgical miscues

It is critical to have an accurate understanding of the educational limitations of dentists because of a lack of formal training with implants. It is not a unilateral problem, as it can be easily discerned from the cases illustrated in this article. The team must pay attention to specific direction as to the number, location, depth, angulation, spacing, and distribution of implants in their patients. More and more experienced restorative dentists are incorporating implant treatment in their practice. There is more awareness and concern at having simple restorative cases turn into very complex undertakings that require extra chair time and additional laboratory expenses. To avoid treatment planning complications and surgical miscues the following is recommended: 1) always complete a detailed restorative and surgical examination; 2) do not place implants without a restorative prosthodontic workup; 3) refer the patient to an experienced dentist for the workup; 4) insist on a diagnostic wax-up; 5) insist on a radiographic and a surgical stent and use it during placement; 6) determine that the entire treatment team has the knowledge and experience to complete the case; 7) as a surgeon, be sure you understand the exigencies of fixed and removable restorative care; 8) make sure that team members have the same treatment vision; and 9) communicate. Never take anything for granted. Communicate. © 2007 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.