ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the clinical results of use of healing abutment for sealing socket and preserving the gingival natural profile in single-tooth immediate implantation.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The osteotomy site was prepared with pilot drill directed by the periodontal probe on palatal wall of the socket,and 31 single-implant were placed into fresh sockets with flapless surgery and filled with Bio-oss. Healing abutments were simultaneously fitted on implants and ceramic crowns fabricated three months post-operation. Scientific assessment of soft tissue contour was carried out by interdental papillae index immediately after restorations.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>One implant was lost at second week after operation. The remaining 30 implants gained perfect osseointegration and the gingival natural profile was preserved completely.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Sealing socket and preserving the gingival natural profile by healing abutment is a predictable, safe and practical method with good aesthetic results in single-tooth immediate implantation.</p>