Considerations for single-unit esthetic implant restorations

Single-tooth replacement in contemporary dentistry is often accomplished with an osseointegrated implant-supported restoration. To accomplish this in an esthetically acceptable manner requires a thorough course of treatment, including diagnosis, treatment planning, surgery and restorative and preventive care. This article discusses surgical considerations that are applicable before implant placement, as well as at the time of stage I and II surgery. Furthermore, the interrelationship between the tissues and the restoration is addressed. Preservation of the result by preventive-care protocol is shown to be essential.