Michigan Dental Implant Impression Comparisons

Taking an impression is the first step in producing a model to indicate the positioning of Michigan dental implants and/or abutments in a patient's mouth. A device which facilitates the replication of implant positions on the study models is called and impression coping and is often required during the impression stage of placing dental implants.

Impressions may be taken in one of two ways: at the implant level or at the abutment level. Placement of an implant analog, a device which mimics the implant on the study model, must occur during an implant-level impression, while abutment level impressions require placement of an abutment analog or a device which mimics the abutment.

Which impression technique is used depends on the preference of the restorative dentist and also varies by implant system. With nonfriction implant systems, impressions can be taken at either the implant or abutment level. With internal friction abutments, delivery of the abutment to its final position is necessary before the final impression is taken.

Comparison of Implant-Level and Abutment-Level

	Implant-Level Impressions	Abutment-Level Impression
Ease of localization	Requires subgingival placement of copings	Easier, because margins are often supragingival
Impression copings	Necessary	Conventional impression without copings is available in some cases
Abutment selection and preparation	On a model in the laboratory	Can be done in the mouth, chairside
Abutment modification	Not needed once delivered	May be needed in the mouth
Custom abutment	Available	Not available (unless an implant-level impression was taken first).
Interim and final crown fabrication	Can be performed in the laboratory, together with the abutment selection and preparation	Chairside relines of provisional restorations and final impressions often necessary

*Source: http://online.lexi.com

Implant-level Impressions

Implant-level impressions are similar for any type of prosthesis. There are two main types of impression copings – closed tray and open tray. Closed tray or transfer impression copings remain on the implant complex after the impression is removed and need to be placed into the impression manually. Open tray or pickup impression copings are automatically retained in the impression after removal. This usually requires the manipulation of a long screw that is not present in transfer copings.

For more information on implant impression comparison, call (248) 357-3100 and talk to an implant specialist. If you're a general dentist who would like to see a demonstration of taking implant impressions in the Oakland, Wayne, or Macomb County Michigan area, feel free to contact Joseph Nemeth, DDS & Associates by phone or email jrn@drnemeth.com. Also look for us on the web at www.drnemeth.com.