Implant-supported prosthesis treatment planning aspects of Kaunas city dentists and dental specialists.

OBJECTIVE: Rehabilitation of mastication using fixed or removable prosthesis on dental implants is a daily procedure in modern dentistry.The huge variety of diagnostic tools and methods, such as cone beam computed tomography or surgical guides help to avoid complications. A vast quantity of diagnostic tools and prosthesis require a tight communication between surgeons and prosthodontists in order to achieve better treatment plan.

METHODS: The questionnaire was approved by LUHS Committee of Ethics. A questionnaire of 17 demographic and specialized questions was composed. A randomized survey of dentists and dental specialists was conducted in Kaunas. A statistical analysis was performed using χ2 test and Student's T-test criteria.

RESULTS: Most of correspondents believe that treatment plan should be created by the current dentist, regardless his/hers specialization. All correspondents performing dental implantation, use elevation of mucoperiosteal flap. The most common diagnostic tool among dentists and oral surgeons is panoramic x-ray. The most common diagnostic tools between prosthodontists are panoramic x-ray and analysis of dental stone castings. The most common complications among dentists and prosthodontists are improper adjustment of soft tissue and errors of dental technicians, among oral surgeons - improper adjustment of soft tissues and implant position.

CONCLUSIONS: 1. The creation of treatment plan does not depend on specialization of dentist. 2. The elevation of mucoperiosteal flap is more common than non-flap procedure. 3. The most used diagnostic method is panoramic x-ray. 4. The most prevalent complications are improper adjustment of soft tissues and errors of dental technicians.