FACTORS TO CONSIDER IN SELECTING AN OCCLUSAL CONCEPT FOR PATIENTS WITH IMPLANTS IN THE EDENTULOUS MANDIBLE

This article discusses the occlusal concepts when making implant-suppo rted and implant-retained mandibular overdentures. The dentate or eden tulous condition of the maxilla plays a significant role in this respe ct. If the maxilla is edentulous, balanced occlusion is indicated, In a maxillary Kennedy class I or II situation, either group function or balanced occlusion is advocated depending on the characteristics of th e opposing dentition, When a complete dentition is present in the maxi lla or in the case of a Kennedy class III or IV situation, mutually pr otected occlusion or group function is recommended depending on the le ngth, position, and number of implants. It is stressed that detailed p reimplant placement diagnosis and treatment planning are essential to obtain a high standard of treatment with overdentures supported and re tained by implants.