Hidden Overdenture Bar in Fixed Implant-retained Hybrid Prosthesis: Report of a Novel Technique.

INTRODUCTION: Every patient needs a comprehensive treatment planning. Dentists must consider the advantages and disadvantages of the available implant prosthetic options and match them to patient's expectations. Hybrid denture prosthesis is one, i.e., fabricated and retained by screw threaded into implant abutments, most of the time on four implants. Sometimes due to failure of an implant, the prosthesis needs to be replaced with a newer casting to accommodate the existing implants. Clinical consideration: This article presents a novel technique, wherein the existing framework of the fixed prosthesis can be used to convert the fixed prosthesis to removable prosthesis on the existing implants, without recasting.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The implant is economical and easily convertible from a fixed-fixed to a fixed-removable prosthesis. Hence, there is reduced morbidity, reduced cost, and an increased psychological comfort for the patient.