Atlas Narrow Body Implants by DentatusClick here to enlarge imageAtlas Narrow Body Implants by Dentatus — I have used a number of mini implants and wanted to attend a Dentatus implant course. But my travel schedule and the course schedule just did not match. I mentioned this to a friend who said he would be happy to take the course and then let me sit in when he did a case. So, this Pearl is written by Dr. Norman Freiberger, dental director of the geriatric center at SSM St. Joseph's Health Center in St. Charles, Mo.
The hands-on course on Dentatus narrow body implants was presented by Keith Rossein, DDS, editor of Implant News & Views. The course covered diagnosis and placement of four Atlas implants available in lengths of 7, 10, and 14 mm, and in diameters of 1.8, 2.2, and 2.4 mm. These implants can be placed on both the upper and lower arches, but the conventional, wider endosseous implants are recommended for the upper arch with sufficient bone volume (minimum six). There are approximately 15 mini implants on the market with each having a particular use and indication. But the Atlas implant design and technology are distinctly different. There is no need for copings, O-rings, or cements since the denture is retained by the resilient Tuf-link™ silicone liner. The placement of four Atlas implants 10 mm from the mesial of the lower cuspids protects inadvertent placement into the mental foramenae. The horizontal and vertical parameters must be determined before selection of the length and diameter of the implant. The vertical determination is somewhat arbitrary and can be confirmed with conventional X-rays or cone beam technology. The horizontal width in the atrophic mandible is more critical because of little or no alveolar bone. The decision to inaugurate mini implants into a denture practice entails certain risk factors. First is the patient's health and well-being and whether he or she smokes. Second, informed consent covering the advantages and disadvantages (risks) of this option/service should always be presented to the patient. Third, a slow-driven motor with no more than 1,300 to 1,500 rpm must be used to prevent overheating of the bone (compression/necrosis). Selection of the components is critical, too, to prevent perforation. These are caveats that must be considered when embarking on this much-needed service for the unhappy lower denture wearer. I know that I shall select my first patient carefully and offer the person all the caveats that I can think of ... and then do my first case. It will be a learning experience for both of us, and I look forward to the challenge. I encourage DE readers to attend a Dentatus Atlas HOW™ (Hands-on Workshop) to help the many patients who need this type of service to improve their overall health and happiness.
Thanks, Norm, for a great Pearl! For more information, contact Dentatus at www.dentatus.com.