Non-Invasive Stereolithographic Implant Treatment Of A Severely Resorbed Edentulous Maxilla

Objectives: Application of a stereolithographic (SLA) technique for the non-invasive treatment of a severely resorbed maxilla that conventionally requires a major bone grafting & sinus lifting surgery was presented in this case report. Methods: A 56 year old female patient with a severely resorbed maxilla was referred to the Department Oral Implantology, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul University. Iliac and sinus grafting was indicated in previous consultations due to the lack of sufficient bone height. The panoramic radiograph revealed a bone height of 6-8 mm in the anterior maxilla. The residual bone height under the sinuses was also below 1mm. Initially, the patient underwent cone-beam CT imaging by using the existing prosthesis, which was used as a scanning appliance. A total of six implants (8mm length and 3.75mm diameter) were planned and a corresponding SLA template was produced. The implants were inserted in a flapless fashion and left for osseointegration for 4 months. Results: All procedures were uneventful and all implants were clinically osseointegrated. The patient was restored with a metal-ceramic fixed restoration. The follow-up examination after six month revealed normal peri-implant conditions and optimal function. The patient was satisfied because of having avoided a major surgery. Conclusions: In selected cases, SLA techniques may help bypassing major surgical procedures required in the classic treatment approach. Keywords: stereolithography, flapless surgery, dental implants