Application of the Neutral Zone in Prosthodontics

A step–by–step guide to successfully designing and placing complete and implant–retained dentures using neutral zone concepts

Understanding the importance of the neutral zone is key to successful prosthodontic treatment. In Application of the Neutral Zone in Prosthodontics, Dr. Joseph Massad and his colleagues present methods and techniques for constructing predictable complete, implant–supported, and implant–retained prostheses. In addition to the incorporation of the neutral zone technique, the authors have included the inter–arch tracer and external surface impressions into the denture fabrication process. All the steps of denture fabrication, including patient examination, impression making, occlusal, esthetic, and neutral zone records, try–in, and placement have been described in detail, including the laboratory procedures.

Successful denture therapy can be challenging for less experienced practitioners. As a consequence, many dentists opt to not offer complete dentures as part of their practices. This book addresses the most common problems with dentures and provides time–tested techniques for successful clinical outcomes.

Illustrates every technique described with more than 300 color photos Covers all phases of complete denture therapy Presents a step–by–step assessment and examination protocol Details the importance of accurate diagnosis and prognosis prior to committing to treatment Describes an alternative to traditional impressioning procedures that can be accomplished in a single appointment

An ideal guide for dental students and prosthodontic and advanced general dentistry residents, Application of the Neutral Zone in Prosthodontics also has much to offer experienced general practitioners and prosthodontists at every stage of their careers. 

Foreword

Preface

1. Assessment of Edentulous Patients

2. Orthopedic Resolution of Mandibular Posture

3. Definitive Impressions

4. Fabricating Trial Denture Bases, Occlusal Rims and Mounting a Central Bearing Device

5. Developing an Esthetic Blue Print

6. Registering The Maxillo–Mandibular Jaw Relationship

7. Neutral Zone Registration

8. Second Laboratory Procedure: Selection and Arrangement of Prosthetic Teeth

9. Wax Try–in Appointment

10. Denture Placement

11. Use of Cad/Cam Technology for Recording and Fabricating Neutral Zone Dentures

Index

Joseph J. Massad, DDS, is Associate Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee Health Center School of Dentistry in Memphis, Tennessee, USA;  Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of   Comprehensive Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry in San Antonio, Texas, USA; Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, in Loma Linda, California, USA; Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Oklahoma School of Dentistry in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; and in Private Practice in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.

David R. Cagna, DMD, MS, is a Professor, Associate Dean of Postgraduate Affairs & Director of Advanced Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Dentistry, Memphis Tennessee, USA; Diplomate & Director of the American Board of Prosthodontics; and Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists.

Charles J. Goodacre, DDS, MSD, is Distinguished Professor at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in Loma Linda, California, USA.

Russell A. Wicks, DDS, MS, is Professor and Chairman in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Dentistry in Memphis, Tennessee, USA.

 Swati A. Ahuja, BDS, MDS, is Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Dentistry in Memphis, Tennessee, USA and Prosthodontic Consultant at Lutheran Medical Center in New York City, New York, USA.