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Method for developing an optimal emergence profile using heat-polymerized provisional restorations for single-tooth
Daniel C T Macintosh1, Mark Sutherland
1Department of Dental Clinical Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Dan.Macintosh@Dal.Ca
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|April 3, 2004
Summary
This study introduces a new method for dental implants, using a silicone gingival substitute to shape provisional restorations. This technique improves the emergence profile and minimizes patient trauma during the healing process.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- Dental Implantology
Background:
- Establishing an optimal emergence profile is crucial for the esthetics and function of single-tooth, implant-supported restorations.
- Traditional methods can involve invasive procedures and intraoral monomer use, potentially leading to gingival trauma.
- Prefabricated healing abutments are commonly used but offer limited control over soft tissue contouring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel technique for achieving an improved emergence profile in single-tooth, implant-supported restorations.
- To present a method that minimizes gingival trauma and intraoral surgical procedures.
- To demonstrate the use of provisional restorations with a silicone gingival substitute for guiding peri-implant tissue healing.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing an easily trimmed silicone gingival substitute to aid in the polymerization of acrylic resin provisional restorations.
- Employing the silicone substitute to achieve precise control over the emergence profile during provisional fabrication.
- Assessing the contour of provisional restorations intraorally and using the trimmed substitute for definitive prosthesis fabrication.
- Exploring the use of these provisional restorations as an alternative to standard healing abutments.
Main Results:
- The described method allows for controlled shaping of the emergence profile using provisional restorations.
- Gingival trauma is minimized by eliminating intraoral monomer use and reducing surgical interventions.
- The silicone gingival substitute facilitates the creation of predictable and acceptable contours.
- Provisional restorations fabricated with this technique can effectively guide the healing of peri-implant gingival tissues.
Conclusions:
- This technique offers a predictable and less invasive approach to managing the emergence profile for implant restorations.
- The use of a silicone gingival substitute provides enhanced control over soft tissue contours during the healing phase.
- The provisional restorations can serve as a valuable tool for both esthetic assessment and guiding tissue maturation, potentially replacing traditional healing abutments.