INDIRECT IMPESSION (closed tray) SET UP

Record on an inventory list implant brand and platform diameter. What parts (e.g. transfers, guide pins, analogs, abutments, final screws) and how many of each the dentist sent with the case.

X-ray verified seating

Check if the Dentist sent a x-ray of the seated impression coping and examine if the transfer was seated properly on the implant in the patients mouth. Verify impression copings match information provided on the hopefully included surgical report (Implant body diameter and platform diameter can differ on the same implant depending on manufacturer). In case there is a mismatch of the impression coping diameter and the information from the surgical report, call the Dr. to verify implant brand and diameter.

Transfer coping

If the impression arrives in the laboratory with the impression copings repositioned in the impression but without the analogs attached, do not remove all transfers at once. Because implant manufacturers have continually improved the design features of their impression copings and the Dr. might have used a mix of older and newer versions.

Indexing notches

To ensure the model is as accurate as possible it is important to reposition the transfers in their original position in the impression. All indirect impression copings have positioning aids (grooves, flat sides) machined in to the body. Some manufacturers (Nobel) machine the positioning aides symmetrical so the transfer will fit correctly back in to the impression as long as the positioning aides are lined up with the grooves in the impression. Other manufacturers (BioHorizons, Implant Direct) machine the positioning aides in a asymmetrical fashion. In this case the transfer has only one correct position. Therefore it is important to take great care when repositioning the impression copings back in to the impression.

Transfer & analog assembly

Select appropriate analog (clone parts) and screw the transfer on to the analog engaging the antirotational feature of the impression coping and the analog and hand tighten the fixation screw. Hold the assembly from the analog end and add a little water to the transfer for lubrication.

Seated assembly

Line up the positioning aides of the impression coping with the corresponding features in the impression and press the assembly in to position. Record on inventory list what parts and how many the laboratory is supplying.