Using Implant Replica Analogs for Implant Positioning

For successful dental implant treatment, the laboratory process is just as important as the procedures performed chairside. Laboratory technicians that develop replacement dentures and crowns can get the best results when using highly accurate implant replicas.

Dental Implant Technologies is a leading U.S. supplier of lab analogs for popular implant systems. Explore the importance of choosing the best implant replicas and order your essential dental office and laboratory supplies from our convenient and secure storefront.

Background to the Lab Analog Process

Dental implants have been available since the 1960s, but the technologies and methods used have evolved significantly since that time. Today, implant placement is considered an extremely safe and successful form of tooth replacement. With the right planning, laboratory process, and chairside procedure, implants have a success rate higher than 95%.

The lab analog process has a significant influence on the success of dental implants. There are a few key high-level elements that contribute to the successful treatment of tooth loss.

  • Diagnosis and an evaluation of the patient’s suitability for implants.
  • Accurate impressions taken either manually or with 3D scanning.
  • Accurate lab work to confirm the placement of crowns and abutments.
  • High-quality materials used for prosthetic attachments.
  • Accurate placement chairside.
  • Ongoing aftercare to ensure healing and osseointegration of the implant.
  • Maintenance of the patient’s oral health and care for prosthetic attachments.

While the laboratory is only engaged in the design and manufacturing of crowns and other prosthetic devices, this is one of the critical steps, without which successful treatment would not be possible.

Lab analogs are used for a crucial step in restoration. They rely on an accurate mold and impression of the section of the mouth being treated.

Why Lab Analogs are Important

Lab analogs, also known as implant replicas, are designed to simulate the implant in place within the patient’s mouth. They are without exterior thread so they can be easily placed into dental molds.

Laboratory technicians use lab analogs to ensure precise end results. With the wrong analog or even poor planning and impression-taking, the final restoration may not suit the patient and may compromise the long-term success of treatment.

The quality of the implant analogs is important. This includes both the overall design and materials. The analog must match the actual implant system being used, without deviation.

  • After the patient has healed from dental implant placement, impression copings are attached to the implants so that an accurate impression can be taken.
  • The dental surgeon takes an impression of the mouth with the copings in place.
  • The impression is sent to the dental laboratory where it is used to create a mold to aid in the final restoration. The mold will integrate the lab analogs to simulate the position of the dental implants.
  • Molds are used for all types of dental implant placement, whether considering single implants, bridged restoration implants, or implant-supported dentures.

Without implant replicas, the laboratory technician would essentially be working blind. Obviously, this would result in sub-par restorations. The implant replicas provide a precise point of reference for the technician to place and shape the prosthetic while considering the surrounding positions or anatomy of healthy tissue.

The entire process is highly collaborative and could be described as symbiotic. Without accurate work in the dental clinic, the laboratory technician wouldn’t be able to create suitable abutments or dentures. Likewise, if the laboratory work is inaccurate, the clinician would have difficulty fitting the final restorations in the dental office.

The Material Used for Implant Replica Lab Analogs

Implant replicas have traditionally been made from stainless steel as the material is strong, corrosion-resistant, and reliable. Some lab analogs are made from titanium which has similar properties but the added benefit of being lightweight. Both materials are considered optimal for lab analogs.

Implant Replicas for Popular Implant Systems

Dental Implant Technologies maintains an extensive range of implant systems for tooth restoration. This includes conical connection implants, internal hex implants, tri-lobe connection implants, and mini-implants. We offer implant replicas for all of our systems.

If you’re seeking a specific replica, please browse through our Implant & Attachments section to find the corresponding system. We have included some specific product examples below to outline the design and quality of our replica lab analogs.

  • Internal Hex Connection implants are popular with dental professionals. Benefits of the system include simple placement of the abutment and screw. There’s a limited risk of mishandling and an excellent closure that is flush with the implant at the bone level. If using ball abutments, Internal Hex Connection is ideal because there’s a shorter collar height. We provide a range of analogs including Standard Platform Analogs (SKU: IL) and Ball Attachment Analogs (SKU: BNL).
  • Logic Implants are another option developed by Hi-Tec Implants. This type of system is often preferred by clinicians seeking tissue-level solutions. The conical connection, closure, and reliability are all supportive of long-term success. Laboratory technicians developing permanent prosthetics for the system will find a range of lab analogs including Digital Analogs for Narrow Platform (SKU: NL-ILD) and Standard Analogs for Narrow Platform Conical (SKU: NL-IL).

Exploring all of our supported systems would be too extensive for any single article detailing the importance of accurate lab analogs. If you are looking for reliable Hi-Tec Implants analogs suited to a range of systems, please browse our complete product lineup. We also offer catalogs for every system for your reference. You can browse our detailed Hi-Tec Implants catalogs here.

The Bottom Line: Analogs are Essential for Successful Restorations

Analogs are necessary for the restoration process using dental implants. The quality of the lab analogs can influence the outcome of the procedure. If you’re seeking the highest quality implant replicas for use in laboratory models, you can find an extensive range of Hi-Tec Implants analogs at Dental Implant Technologies. With competitive pricing, the best customer service, and prompt shipping to laboratories in America, we are your best source of reliable implant analogs.