[Functional prosthetic treatment for the partially edentulous with osseointegrated implants].

The edentulous distal extension area has generally been restored with a removable partial denture. Some clinicians report long term success with a fixed partial denture containing distal cantilever pontic(s). Conversely, other clinicians find that the aforementioned is suspect at best due to the unusual stress demands placed on the abutment teeth by the pontic(s). When a tooth borne fixed partial denture is used to restore a long edentulous span, reports vary relative to long term success. The advent of osseointegrated implants as tooth substitutes may reduce and often eliminate particular compromised fixed or removable partial denture designs. Disregarding other problems that may or may not coexist with any remaining natural teeth in the same arch is a fallacious overview. It is paramount that future problems must be incorporated in any and all treatment plans at the same time the initial plan is formulated. Recent surveys reveal that a fewer percent of the population are becoming completely edentulous. Therefore, it is apparent that an increase in the treatment of the partially edentulous implant patient is a realistic consideration for all restorative dentists. However, it is ironic that those patients with the most severely debilitated conditions may often not be candidates for implant procedures. It is mandatory that a detailed explanation of any compromises and drawbacks to the final result must accompany the initial diagnostic presentation to the patient. It is quite evident that the dentist is confronted with a paradox that is difficult to resolve.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)