Fabrication of a radiographic and surgical stent for implants with a vacuum former

There are a number of advantages of this procedure. The artificial tooth provides the contour for implant tooth and saves the time needed for waxing. The clear autocuring resin provides visibility for correct angulation during stent preparation and surgical stage. The clear autocuring resin is formed in the mouth to ensure the tissue adaptation of the stent and minimize the need for adjusting the tissue surface of the stent. The radiographic markers can be placed close to the crest, and precise surgical localization can be achieved. The further a marker is from the ridge crest, the greater the potential for improper registration at surgery.13 The gutta-percha that has properties of thermoplasticity and radiopacity is a helpful guide (Fig. 3).13 It also can be easily removed by a carbide bur and the radiographic guide can be transformed into a surgical guide. This method is best situated for short-span implant-supported prostheses. Shrinkage of resin during polymerization limits its use in long-span prostheses. © 2000 The Editorial Council of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.