Dental Implant Impressions: The First Impression Is The Last Impression: Short Communication

Abstract

Dental implant is defined as a prosthetic device made of alloplastic material(s) implanted into the oral tissues beneath the mucosal and/or periosteal layer and on or within the bone to provide retention and support for a fixed or removable dental prosthesis; a substance that is placed into and/or on the jaw bone to support a fixed or removable dental prosthesis [Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms (GPT 9)]. Dental implants have been swiftly gaining popularity as a treatment modality of choice in prosthodontics i.e. both fixed and removable. Impression is defined as negative likeness or copy in reverse of the surface of an object; an imprint of the teeth and adjacent structures for use in dentistry (GPT 9). Impressions in implantology is a crucial step and involves a meticulous workflow in achieving the passive fit for the long-term success of the final implant prosthesis. This involves accurately relating and recording the exact replica of the implant analogue or the implant abutment to the other structures in the oral cavity. A plethora of factors determine the accuracy of the implant impressions namely the choice of impression tray, impression material, number of implants, depth, position and angulation of implants and most importantly the technique encountered for recording the impression. This short communication briefly portrays the armamentarium and components used along with the selection of a suitable impression tray, impression material and impression technique devised for the precise impression of the implant for the ultimate success of the final prosthesis.