Pterygoid implants as alternative to bone augmentation in implant dentistry.

The ultimate dental implant challenge is reconstruction of the severely resorbed maxilla, especially in patients with long-term edentulism or multiple previous failed attempts at dental implant placement and full-arch implant rehabilitation. Before implant dentistry, complete dentures, which are limited by poor retention and lack of support that the alveolar ridge offers in atrophic maxillae, were the only option for these patients. Pterygoid implants are now a valid and valuable resource for the rehabilitation of the posterior atrophic maxilla. This chapter will cover pterygoid implant surgical and pre-surgical planning, surgical procedures and protocols, including multiple techniques commonly utilised to place and restore these implants comprehensively.