Types, uses, and evaluation of the plate-form implant.

Plate-form blades have shown a high rate of success over their 25+ years of service. Contributing to their longevity is the design of the implant, which transfers the applied forces over a large area of bone. Three types of implants are being considered: (1) the Ramus Blade, designed for the body and ramus region of the mandible; (2) the Ramus Frame, designed for the totally edentulous mandible with moderate to severe bone atrophy; and (3) the single-tooth replacement, an implant for single or multiple tooth loss. Both 316-L stainless steel and titanium metal types have been used to fabricate each implant type. Blades are, in the author's opinion, the most universal of the implants used today, for they are utilized in so many variable bone widths and heights. Besides being in service for periods of up to 27 years, they are patient-acceptable in terms of comfort, function and minimal maintenance.