Soft-Tissue Healing and Impression Technique in Implant Dentistry: A Case Report

Abstract

The present clinical report describes a technique for aesthetic restoration of single dental implants in the anterior area. One objective of implant therapy in anterior areas is the achievement of an aesthetic result, which is highly dependent on the condition of the peri-implant soft tissue. A 22-year-old woman presented with right maxillary lateral incisor agenesis. An implant was placed, and a transfer impression technique carried out. The model was used to construct the custom abutment, provisional crown, and metal substructure. The metal substructure was covered with a waxed collar with the same emergence profile as the provisional restoration. The abutment and the provisional crown were placed, and after soft-tissue healing, an impression was taken using the waxed metal framework as coping. This final impression also registered and transferred the architecture of the soft peri-implant tissues. This clinical report describes an impression technique that accurately duplicates the peri-implant tissue profile. The final prosthesis is therefore shaped according to the interim prosthesis, for ideal contour and soft-tissue position. This technical procedure requires minimal chair time and is cost effective, as fewer components are used during the treatment.