A technique for using a surgical guide construction with a self-retaining feature, which has proven to be a significant improvement for stage 1 surgical procedures, is described. This design is more convenient to use than previously described occlusal extension splints. It maintains the concepts for ideal fixture placement that have proven so valuable in creating both a functionally and esthetically uncompromised prosthesis supported by implants. Keywords: implant placement, self-retaining surgical guide