Esthetic single-tooth replacement with implants: a team approach

The range of indications for implant-borne prostheses in partially edentulous patients has expanded in recent years as a consequence of advances in regenerative techniques for bone and soft tissues. The esthetic demands of both patients and dentists have risen in parallel with these advances. Esthetic compromises in prostheses have become increasingly less tolerable, particularly in the anterior region of the maxilla. If the presenting situation is less than optimal, extensive preprosthetic measures may be required to prepare local tissues for acceptance of esthetically and functionally adequate prostheses. Particularly in difficult situations, collaboration by a team is recommended. The exchange of ideas and experience among specialists should begin as early as the treatment planning stage and extend over the entire course of therapy. The objective should be defined and the various steps of treatment should be coordinated with participation from all team members.