When to save or remove implants in the smile zone: A clinical report of maxillary lateral incisor implants in malposition
Abstract
Objective: The following is a clinical report addressing when to save or remove implants with esthetic deficiencies in the smile zone as well as the sequence and timing of interdisciplinary treatment.
Clinical considerations: Key factors in the decision-making process in treating implants in malposition are whether the implants are (1) in a reasonable restorative position, (2) free of disease, and (3) placed with adequate depth. This clinical report encompassed periodontal corrective surgery, non-surgical soft tissue sculpting through subgingival crown contour, material selection for definitive restorations, and cementation techniques for cement-retained restorations.
Clinical significance: Knowledge and understanding of interdisciplinary treatment planning, sequencing, and respective techniques that can be implemented when confronting implants in malposition in the smile zone will allow the interdisciplinary team to achieve the desired esthetic restorative result.
Keywords: crown contour; dental implants; implant decoronation; midfacial recession defect; ridge augmentation; submergence profile.