In the evolving world of implant dentistry, clinicians are continually challenged to provide innovative solutions that adapt to anatomical limitations while improving patient outcomes. The LOCATOR® Angled Abutment from Zest Dental Solutions offers a versatile, user-friendly treatment for both overdenture and fixed restorative cases, says Michael Scherer, DMD, MS.
Scherer maintains a clinical practice limited to implant dentistry and also maintains academic positions at University of Nevada – Las Vegas and Loma Linda University. As Chief Clinical Officer for Zest, he was one of the first clinicians, he says, to have the opportunity to use the LOCATOR Angled Abutments. The company, he notes, recognized the need for a better solution to off-axis implant challenges and designed the LOCATOR Angled Abutment to correct up to 35 degrees of divergence—15 degrees of implant angulation with the abutment itself and an additional 20 degrees using LOCATOR removable extended range or FIXED inserts.
“This is a huge benefit for overdenture and fixed cases,” Scherer exclaims, “as it permits the clinician to work around anatomical configurations that are less than ideal or in scenarios where anatomical structures need to be avoided, such as maxillary sinuses or mandibular nerve canals. It opens up a whole world of clinical possibilities for treating more patients.”
The abutment system not only provides clinical adaptability but also maintains simplicity in workflow. “LOCATOR Angled uses the same components as LOCATOR straight abutments,” Scherer explains. “The clinician can use the same impression copings, analogs, and other items they have on hand, making it easy to adopt this treatment option without additional inventory costs.”
From a biomechanical perspective, the benefits extend beyond flexibility. “The angled abutment actually has the potential to improve implant and bone health by enabling a more favorable distribution of forces, maximizing use of available bone and preserving existing bone structure,” Scherer asserts. “It also allows the clinician to avoid critical anatomy while placing implants.”
Regarding patient outcomes, these benefits are tangible. “LOCATOR Angled allows overdenture patients to seat their denture more easily and experience less wear on their abutments in cases of high angulation,” he says. For fixed cases, he adds, the system allows for greater flexibility in prosthetic design, including more posterior teeth placement and reduced distal cantilevers.
Because LOCATOR Angled Abutments are compatible with both LOCATOR removable and FIXED prosthetic components, patients can easily upgrade to a fixed treatment solution or change to an overdenture as their dexterity and mobility change, Scherer notes. “LOCATOR Angled Abutments allow a seamless transition into your workflow and existing treatment protocols while offering more flexibility, less complication, and greater patient satisfaction.”
Michael Scherer, DMD, MS
Private Practice, Las Vegas, Nevada; Diplomate, American College of Prosthodontists and American Board of Oral Implantology
“The angled abutment actually has the potential to improve implant and bone health by enabling a more favorable distribution of forces,” Scherer says.”
Zest Dental Solutions
800-262-2310
zestdent.com
