Implants by the Numbers

Dental implants offer a long-lasting solution to edentulism, or toothlessness. The author of this article explains his methodology for dental implants, known as "restorative address 73-422." This method helps navigate an implant start to finish, where each number corresponds to a significant measurement in the dental implant process. The author also stresses the importance of clear communication between dentist and patient, as well as dentist and surgeon, in order to ensure a successful implant experience.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• List the important measurements regarding the placement of the implant platform.

• Describe the effect that each of these measurements will have on the resulting restoration.

• Communicate necessary implant platform positions to the surgeon accurately.

About the Author

G. Scott Sauer, DDS
Practices dentistry at Eldorado Smiles and Orthodontics, Frisco, Texas; Implant Subject Matter Expert and Faculty at PDS Institute, Irvine, California