Journal of implantology and applied sciences ISSN:2765-7833(Print) 2765-7841(Online) 대한구강악안면임플란트학회지

The primary objectives in treating fully edentulous patients are: recovery of function, such as mastication or pronuncia tion, esthetics, including facial profile, and the maintenance of health. In this case, a fully edentulous patient was treated with an conventional complete denture for the maxilla and implant retained overdenture using Locator attachments in the mandible, following recommendations from the 2002 McGill Consensus. Clinical factors to consider before implant retained overdenture restorations are as follows: vertical space, eco nomic factors, ease of cleaning, retention and lifespan of the attachments. The interocclusal space in this case was about 8 ~ 9mm and the soft tissue was analyzed using the patients’ temporary dentures. Because of the insufficient interocclusal space, Locator attachments, which require the least amount of interoc clusal space, were chosen. Locator attachments are also advantageous in patients who are shifting from wearing fixed type prosthesis to removable prosthesis, because of the easily adjustable retention strengths. For esthetics and function, correct understanding of the patient’s chief complaint and the proper evaluation of existing restorations is crucial. In addition, when treatment planning, one must take into consideration the expectations of the patient and also the cost of treatment. For a better prognosis, periodic follow up must take place following treatment.