Dental implants
- Recommendations
▪️ We strongly recommend careful patient evaluation, selection and treatment planning, followed by meticulous execution of treatment steps. (Strong recommendation) (High grade evidence) 1,2,5
▪️ The preliminary evaluation of the patient, including the collection of clinical and radiographic records, must be taken by the dentist, who establishes the treatment plan in collaboration with other members of the dental implant team. (Strong recommendation) (High grade evidence). 1,2,6,7
▪️ Patients selected should be medically fit and the case should be indicated for implant placement. A careful evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of alternative prostheses in relation to the presenting status of the surrounding teeth, soft tissues and associated structures should be considered. (Strong recommendation) (High grade evidence). 8-10
▪️ Proposed treatment plan should be discussed with the dental implant team and patient. Decide the preferred number, diameter, angulation and positions of dental implants to be placed to support the planned prosthesis, putting in consideration the biomechanical and esthetic, surgical and anatomical factors. (Good practice statement).
▪️ Perform either two-dimensional radiograph or three-dimensional imaging depending on the difficulty of the case. (strong recommendation) (High grade evidence) 10
▪️ Consider use of surgical guides in complicated cases. (Conditional recommendation) (moderate grade evidence) 11-13
▪️ Provisional restorations should be prepared and used appropriately. Strong recommendation) (High grade evidence). 14
▪️ Obtain informed consent before dental implant therapy. (Good practice statement).
▪️Arrange follow- up visits to assess the peri-implant soft and hard tissues, the continued stability of the dental implants, prosthesis and occlusion. (Good practice statement).
Clinical indicators for monitoring
1. Preoperative diagnostic radiographs.
2. Preoperative informed consent.
Updating of the guidelines
These guidelines will be updated whenever there is new evidence.