The partially edentulous patient: fixed prosthodontics or implant treatment options.

The replacement of missing teeth by conventional fixed partial dentures or by implant supported prostheses occupies a major portion of the average restorative and prosthodontic practice. New materials, techniques, and technologies are constantly being added to our armamentarium. The demand for fixed prosthodontic patient services will continue to grow. It is the ultimate duty of the provider of these services to utilize an evidence-based rationale when determining the best possible treatment for the partially edentulous patient.