Hard-copy provisional appliances in the rehabilitation of the edentulous patient.

A technique is described whereby a diagnostic appliance simulating an implant-supported fixed prosthesis for the edentulous patient can be made quickly and relatively inexpensively. Such an appliance gives the patient an understanding of the physical limitations of various modalities of prosthodontic restoration. It is a tool that permits both the patient and the dentist to assess functional, esthetic, and phonetic criteria in the realistic setting of everyday usage. Important decisions regarding future treatment can thus be finalized before a huge financial commitment is made. It is a highly cost-effective technique, both financially and emotionally.