Inclusion Criteria:  patients with a partially edentulous mandible indicated for rehabilitation with implant prostheses, any extractions, or surgeries performed at least six months earlier.  Exclusion Criteria:  patients with systemic diseases affecting bone quality or resorption temporomandibular joint dysfunction, severe attrition or parafunctional habits, patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy, heavy smokers, vulnerable groups such as psychologically unstable patients