Abstract
There is undeniably progress in preventive and curative dentistry every year, yet edentulism still poses a challenge for dentists throughout the world. The possibilities for rehabilitation in maxilla are quite diverse and it is still challenging to choose the right type of reconstruction, from complete denture to the number of implants used and the retention system applied in implant-supported prostheses.
The treatment must first and foremost suit our patient. It is therefore primarily up to the patient's requirements.
Even if we are dealing with the rehabilitation of a toothless upper jaw, we must always take into account not only the condition of the opposite jaw but also the entire masticatory apparatus, i. e. the stomatognathic system. The decision is not an easy one, although the patient's wishes are always decisive, i. e. whether he accepts a removable restoration with the varieties in total removable restorations in sense of materials and different production technologies, whether he is able to get used to a covered palate at all, or whether he only wants a fixed restoration.
Some patients desire a free palate but will settle for a removable restoration, which in some hybrid restorations is horseshoe-shaped yet complements the atrophic alveolus well. This article aims to ease the decision-making process for everyday practice.
It describes the prosthodontic treatment options in the edentulous maxilla. Indications and various types of removable complete dentures, and treatment alternatives with dental implants either fixed, removable, or a combination of the two are discussed.