What is the best way to oppose lateral forces on splinted implants?

Parallel positioning of implants is crucial in ensuring equal distribution of forces during function. When implants are placed parallel to each other, they can better withstand lateral forces, which tend to create stress concentrations that can lead to implant failure. This parallelism allows for a more stable platform, where the load is evenly shared among the implants, reducing the risk of one implant bearing excessive forces.

Furthermore, parallel implants facilitate proper occlusion and help maintain correct alignment with the opposing dentition, further mitigating lateral stress. By ensuring that all implants are aligned, any lateral forces encountered during chewing or biting are dispersed more efficiently across the entire splint rather than being concentrated on a specific implant.

While using a rigid connector can help to some extent, the true foundation for stability under lateral forces lies in the parallel alignment of the implants themselves. This ensures that they can effectively work together as a unified system, providing the necessary strength and support for the prosthesis they hold.