Managing cases
Short and narrow-diameter implants can be useful tools for simplifying surgical procedures.
The use of short and narrow implants must be decided on an individual basis. The patient’s condition and preferences should be considered, and the treatment being should be planned carefully.
Short and narrow-diameter implants do have their limits:
- highly atrophic cases should be managed with bone reconstruction procedures
- it is necessary to rebuild tissue volume in the aesthetic zone
- short implants are not recommended in cases involving deep bone defects between teeth
- the minimum amount of bone above the nerve for short implants (6mm) is 8mm; for an extra-short implant (4mm) the bone must be at least 6mm
- cases with less than 6mm of bone above the nerve should be treated with vertical GBR or bone block grafts
- the minimum bone width to safely place narrow implants (3mm) is 4mm; cases with less than 4mm should be treated with lateral GBR (simultaneously or staged)