Implants · single question
CASE 5 — Patient uses salmeterol, is missing teeth #5 and #30, has a posterior open bite. What must be done FIRST before placing implants?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Occlusal plane rehabilitation
- A. A posterior open bite must be corrected (occlusal plane rehabilitation) BEFORE implant placement. Implants placed without establishing proper occlusion will be subject to unfavorable forces, leading to failure.
- B. Bone grafting may be needed, but the occlusal plane problem takes priority.
- C. Soft tissue conditioning is for edentulous ridges under removable prostheses — not the primary concern before implant placement in this case.
- D. A sinus lift may be needed for the #5 area, but the open bite must be corrected first — implants placed in an uncorrected malocclusion will experience unfavorable occlusal forces.