[Single tooth loss and osseointegrated implants. Replacement of a maxillary incisor]

The loss of a maxillary incisor is traditionally treated with a three-unit bridge. The progress made in dental implantology since the demonstration of osseointegration by Brånemark and al. allows the overall replacement of the missing tooth. Furthermore, the use of osseointegrated implants makes the replacement of a single maxillary incisor reliable and aesthetic, even in cases of moderate gingival and bone recession. In respect of the rules set forth by Brånemark and al., it is essential to make a wax-up and a surgical stents. For anterior teeth, the single tooth abutment marketed by Nobelpharma allows the aesthetic margins of the prosthesis to be placed in a sub-gingival position. Once this component is positioned on the fixture, the achievement of the prosthesis is practically identical to traditional metal ceramic crown. The abutment is maintained on the fixture by a screw which can be easily removed and avoids an excess of subgingival cement. Nonetheless, its diameter means that it is reserved for relatively wide teeth. This type of treatment involves the development of a reliable and proven surgical planning for bone grafts, especially in cases of facial traumatism.