Palatal extension of removable prostheses related to implant positions.

Once the decision has been made to construct a maxillary implant-supported overdenture prosthesis, implant location and number are important determining factors for palatal design. Eight clinical scenarios are described. Four cases require full palatal coverage, and four cases permit modified palatal coverage. Only two, with an increased number of implants and more posterior locations, permit a completely open palatal design similar to fixed prostheses.