| Abstract: | While single tooth replacement can be predictably accomplished using implant therapy, this procedure is challenging in the esthetic zone where numerous criteria must be evaluated by the restorative team. If the gingival and osseous architecture of the failing tooth is acceptable, the therapeutic goal is to maintain the existing morphological condition. The optimal tridimensional implant is placed in the esthetic zone immediately after extraction or 8 to 12 weeks after extraction. The abutment connection and the nonfunctional temporary tooth restoration are prepared in advance and should respect the forms of contour of the contralateral tooth. In some specific clinical cases, not only can the patient's smile be returned after only a few hours of clinical work, but more importantly, initial capital of soft and hard tissues can be preserved. After healing, maturation, and stabilization during the 3 to 6 months of osseointegration, a compressive impression of the implant site can be taken and the implant restoration can be cemented. A multi-centric study performed by several dentists during the past 3 years have drawn interesting statistics on the rate of success, the different type of implants, and the variation of the peri-implant bone and gingival contour. |
