Longitudinally documented benefits for edentulous patients of treatmen
t outcomes of the osseointegration technique demonstrate compelling th
erapeutic results. Heterogeneous population groups, treated in differe
nt centres by various-dental specialists, have provided impressive evi
dence of a minimal burden of illness associated with the procedure. A
critical appraisal of the many components of any implemented treatment
paradigm demands repeated analysis of the factors which enable patien
ts' informed consent and dentists' optimal decision making. This paper
reviews those salient aspects which impact upon decision making with
implant-supported prostheses. It emphasizes the predominance of bone s
tructure in selecting the most likely favourable treatment outcome.