The Single Anterior Implant: Strategies for Long‑Term Stability and Aesthetics

Program Track: Implant Surgery and Prosthetic Rehabilitation

Achieving long term optimal aesthetic results with a single implant in the aesthetic zone is a challenging endeavor. It can be difficult in sites where a large volume of bone and soft tissue have been lost. Stable, continuing symmetry and harmony will depend upon the interplay between the reconstructive efforts and timing of placements. This course will outline where we have come over the last 30 years and where we are now with protocols for anterior aesthetic implants. Surgical perspectives as well as the view of the prosthodontist will be discussed with current strategies. Stability of results are further complicated by physiological craniofacial changes and should be planned for. Other approaches with immediate placement, screw retained restorations, provisionals, and current 3D planning will all be presented.

Educational Objectives:

• Examine the biology behind long term success with the single tooth anterior implant.
• Recognize what modifications have been made over the last 30 years for when to stage, graft, or do flapless immediate surgeries for single anterior sites.
• Develop reasons and clinical examples for soft or hard tissue reconstruction or a combination of both.
• Consider long-term aesthetic challenges due to continual craniofacial growth and provide solutions.