Small Diameter Implants: Specific Indications and Considerations for the Posterior Mandible: A Case Report
The field of implant dentistry continues to grow globally as clinicians embrace the evolution of various endosseous implant technologies and the array of enhanced surgical and prosthetic products. The utilization of small diameter implants in limited osseous regions increases patients' ability to choose implants as a viable restorative option. Although small diameter implants have been indicated in the incisor region for the maxilla and mandible primarily, their usage should be considered in select posterior regions. These 2 case reports demonstrate the incorporation of small diameter implants to replace missing mandibular posterior teeth.
Figure 1 . Full mucoperiosteal flap reflected. Figure 2. Two 3.0 × 13-mm 1-piece implants. Figure 3. Panoramic radiograph: postimplant placement. Figure 4. Two 3.0 × 13-mm 1-piece implants 3 months postsurgery. Figure 5. Contour impression caps.
Figure 6 . Final prosthesis: panoramic radiograph. Figure 7. Two-unit porcelain fused to metal-fixed prosthesis. Figure 8. Preoperative view (mesial-distal dimension: 12 mm; buccal-lingual: 5 mm), centric occlusion. Figure 9. Two 3.0 × 11.5-mm 1-piece implants.
Figure 10 . Two-unit porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridge, occlusal view (intraorally). Figure 11. Two-unit PFM bridge, centric occlusion.
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