There are 3 messages totalling 427 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:
1. APC precoats
2. Peri-oral scarring
3. Transitional implants

I use the Unitek precoats and I've always wondered if they are a strong as brackets in which the composite has been "buttered" into the brackets ala Paul Gange. does anyone know of any published material on this subject or any anecdotal comments thanks

charlie ruff

When confronted with situations that are so far from normal as to be unresolvable, I try to put aside our preconceptions of “perfect” and address symptoms. So, what are their complaints? About esthetics? About function? Pain or discomfort? (Get us pictures!)

Barry Raphael

Clifton, NJ

Charlie,

Unfortunately, I haven't done enough to give you good data.  I've had some MTIs which were splinted (two MTIs, two crowns, adjacent and splinted which lasted for a year until the kid was hit in the mouth (accidently) with a school backpack.  I've had single laterals fail in 4 months.  I think the "crown to root" ratio is an issue. These things don't integrate (as best I can tell) so rotational movements can be a problem.  Although I haven't done it, I'd be tempted to place two MTI (small diameter) temporaries and prevent the rotational issue. The big problem with the SteriOss design (unless they have fixed it) was the length of the implant in general and especially the part extending above the adveolus.  They were one length fits all and often require trimming and more modification than should be needed. For the right patient, I still think it's a good alternative. They can be placed transmucosal just like the TADs and are self-drilling and self-tapping. Wish I had more info.  After moving across the pond, my daily clinical activity decreased significantly.  Always the blight of academics. Cheers!     

-=Paul=-

Paul M Thomas