Customized abutments to shape and transfer peri-implant soft-tissue contours

With the functional successes of implant therapy being realized, the emphasis is shifting to the creation of tooth-like esthetics with implant therapy. Dental implants are placed after careful planning and site preparation, which may include bone and soft tissue grafting. The final soft tissue appearance is enhanced through the early use of provisional restorations. A combination technique is described to fabricate provisional healing abutments for cement-on prostheses and to transfer the individualized peri-implant soft-tissue contours to the dental laboratory. This technique will allow the practitioner to deliver highly customized implant care with familiar techniques and readily available materials.