A comprehensive classification to full arch implant rehabilitation

Abstract

Objectives: This article proposes a classification system for full-arch implant rehabilitation options, taking into account the patient's individual bone resorption pattern. Methods: Five levels of jaw atrophy were established according to the available therapeutic bone height and width in the anterior and posterior jaw, based on the evaluation of 150 consecutive edentulous maxillae and 150 consecutive edentulous mandibles by cone-beam computed tomography. Classification proposal: Fixed full-arch and removable rehabilitation schemes were proposed for each level. Implant number, location, position, design and the need for regenerative procedures were defined according to clinical information and available evidence-based rationale Conclusions: The illustrated rehabilitation scheme aims to aid clinicians during treatment planning and to underline a pyramidal complexity hierarchy of the different classes, from simple to complex. Besides being helpful for treatment planning, this classification also optimizes communication between clinicians and patients.