Prosthesis Design for Osseointegrated Implants in the Edentulous Maxilla

The position of osseointegrated implants in the edentulous maxilla is dictated by available bone and can vary widely among patients. Anatomy limits the amount of bone available for placement of osseointegrated implants. With increasing resorption, the number, length, and position of implants are further compromised. Bone grafts are frequently needed to place implants of adequate length. The variability of implant placement indicates the need for multiple prosthesis designs in the maxilla. Prosthesis design considerations are suggested for patients with minimal, moderate, and severe resorption of the edentulous maxilla. Keywords: edentulous maxilla, prosthesis design