Clinical Recommendations for Implant Verification Jigs in Analogue and Digital Workflows. A Narrative Review.

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>Misfit at the implant-prosthesis interface arises from small errors that occur during impression-taking, cast fabrication and milling. Implant verification jigs (IVJs) have been described as a quality-control device in fixed implant prosthodontics, yet protocols and indications are inconsistently described This narrative review aims to compare materials and fabrication methods, map their functional roles and provide clinical recommendations for both analogue and digital workflows.<h4>Methods</h4>Peer-reviewed English-language publications from 1 January 1980 to 30 October 2025 were searched on PubMed and Scopus using MeSH and free-text terms for dental implants and IVJs. Eligible studies include technique reports, in vitro studies, clinical studies and narrative reviews that reported materials, fabrication or functional roles of IVJs in fixed implant prosthodontics. Titles, abstracts and full texts were screened against predefined criteria. Data were synthesised narratively by workflow and verification approach.<h4>Results</h4>Fifty-two publications met the criteria (29 technique descriptions, 12 in vitro, 8 in vivo, 1 case report, 2 reviews). The materials reported for IVJs included PMMA, UDMA, photopolymerising composite resins and Type III/IV dental stone jigs. In analogue workflows, intra-oral and extra-oral verification procedures have been reported. In digital workflows, digitising IVJs or implant verification casts as well as CAD-CAM IVJs have been described.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Within the limits of this narrative review, IVJs can be used as adjuncts for conventional impressions and intra-oral scans with vertical scanbodies. Photogrammetry and systems that pair horizontal scanbodies and AI-based recognition provide datasets with greater accuracy, negating the need for conventional IVJs. Future studies should standardise verification strategies and evaluate long-term clinical outcomes.<h4>Clinical relevance</h4>This narrative review clarifies the indications for IVJs, outlines workable analogue and digital strategies, and provides clinical recommendations. Selective use of IVJs prior to the fabrication of the definitive prosthesis can reduce the likelihood of misfit.