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Published on: June 24, 2018
Abutment emergence modification for immediate implant provisional restorations
Todd R Schoenbaum1, Yi-Yuan Chang, Perry R Klokkevold
1Division of Restorative Dentistry, University of California-Los Angeles School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1668, USA. tschoenbaum@dentistry.ucla.edu
Summary
Modifying stock titanium abutments by narrowing their emergence profile improves outcomes for immediate implant provisional restorations. This technique enhances peri-implant gingival volume and esthetics.
Area of Science:
- Dental Implantology
- Prosthodontics
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Stock titanium abutments may hinder immediate implant provisional restoration success due to apical flare design.
- This flare can cause excessive pressure on peri-implant tissues, leading to bone resorption and limited gingival volume increase.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the benefits of recontouring stock titanium abutments for immediate implant provisional restorations.
- To assess the impact of abutment modification on peri-implant soft tissue and bone.
Main Methods:
- Recontouring stock titanium abutments from a flared to a straight/parallel subgingival design.
- Opaquing the retentive portion of the abutment to mitigate the "graying effect".
Main Results:
- Modified abutments minimize pressure on the surgical site, allowing space for gingival remodeling.
- Potential for increased peri-implant gingival volume and coronal soft tissue maintenance or migration.
Conclusions:
- Narrowing the emergence profile of implant abutments is beneficial for immediate provisional restorations.
- This modification enhances peri-implant esthetics and predictability by increasing gingival volume.
