Implant-supported single tooth replacement in the aesthetic region: a complex challenge

The placement of a single tooth implant-supported restoration in the maxillary anterior area still presents a difficult challenge. To address this challenge, various methods and techniques have been proposed. The learning objective of this article is to present a particular clinical protocol for achieving predictable aesthetic restoration, even under the relatively difficult circumstances involving thin, highly scalloped gingiva and high lip line. A clinical case is used to illustrate the presentation of implant surgery, bone regeneration, connective tissue graft, provisionalization, and placement of the definitive prosthetic restorations. The use of pressure to expand soft tissue is described, and the importance of papillae protection is emphasized.