Staged esthetic crown lengthening: Classification and guidelines for periodontal-restorative therapy.

OBJECTIVE: This article presents technical guidelines for perio-restorative esthetic crown lengthening, along with a discussion of the biologic rationale. A classification system is proposed to assist in treatment planning and sequencing the surgical and restorative phases. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: When esthetic crown lengthening is performed as an adjunct to restorative therapy, the surgical approach must be determined by the anticipated position of the restorative margins. The removal of sufficient bone to achieve the desired clinical crown length and preserve the supracrestal gingival tissue dimensions is facilitated by the use of a surgical guide fabricated according to the design of the restorations. A staged approach allows sequencing the provisional restoration to minimize unesthetic sequelae during the healing period. Inadequate bone resection and/or alteration of the soft tissue dimensions results in delayed healing, leading to coronal gingival rebound and biologic width impingement. CONCLUSION: The identification and preservation of appropriate restorative and biologic landmarks is essential for success in pre-prosthetic esthetic crown lengthening treatment. A staged approach improves the esthetic management during the postsurgical healing and maturation period. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A restorative driven classification system for sequencing and staging adjunctive esthetic crown lengthening procedures is presented. Technical guidelines to enhance gingival margin predictability are suggested, accompanied by relevant evidence. In addition, wound healing timelines following gingival and osseous resection are provided.

Sequential Human Histology Results of the Subperiosteal Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Ridge Augmentation Technique (SMART): A Chronologic Wound Healing Proof-of-Principle Study.

Traditional GBR procedures have been associated with frequent complications and compromised peri-implant esthetics. Tunneling techniques have been proposed as a promising alternative in this regard. More recently, a subperiosteal minimally invasive aesthetic ridge augmentation technique (SMART) was reported to have been clinically successful in a prospective case series. This technique includes the use of a bone graft/recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB combination delivered to the site by a tunneling method. However, published histologic information regarding the nature of the regenerated tissue has been limited. The current study evaluated the histologic and histomorphometric findings of four human specimens harvested at 2, 5, 9, and 14 months after ridge augmentation using the SMART method. Evaluations of the wound healing and bone regeneration sequence over time found that the ridge augmentation was the result of extensive new bone formation that progressed through the woven bone to lamellar bone stages, with remodeling of the xenogeneic graft material and replacement by patient bone. This is the first study utilizing sequential human specimens to histologically examine the chronology of wound healing following alveolar ridge augmentation.

Restorative Emergence Profile for Single-Tooth Implants in Healthy Periodontal Patients: Clinical Guidelines and Decision-Making Strategies.

The peri-implant soft tissue seal consists of a connective tissue cuff and a junctional epithelium that is different from the arrangement of periodontium around a natural tooth. However, the peri-implant soft tissue complex lacks Sharpey's fibers, thus offering less resistance to clinical probing and biofilm penetration compared to the natural dentition. Therefore, the proper restorative emergence profile design is essential to facilitate favorable esthetic outcomes and maintain peri-implant health. The aim of this article is to review the currently available evidence related to the design of subgingival (critical and subcritical) and supragingival contours of the implant restorative emergence profile (IREP) as well as provide a flowchart for decision-making in clinical practice. Theoretically, the subgingival contours of the crown/abutment complex should mimic the morphology of the root and the cervical third of the anatomic crown as much and as often as possible. However, this is highly dependent upon the three-dimensional spatial position of the implant relative to the hard and soft tissue complex, in addition to the location of the definitive restoration. Frequently, a convex critical contour is required on the facial aspect of a palatally or incisally positioned implant to support an adequate gingival-margin architecture. Conversely, if the implant is placed too far facially, then a flat or concave contour is recommended. In instances where soft tissue support is not needed, the subcritical area may be undercontoured to increase the thickness, height, and stability of the soft tissue cuff.

Tridimensional Reconstruction of a Complex Iatrogenic Defect Using Orthodontic Forced Eruption and Minimally Invasive Bone Grafting.

As the use of dental implants has become more common, so has the frequency of complications and unforeseen outcomes. This article describes the treatment of a complex iatrogenic defect secondary to a failed implant (No. 7) and multiple bone-grafting attempts in the maxillary anterior region. The patient's revealing smile line and high-risk circumstances demanded the use of an interdisciplinary treatment approach with high potential for predictable esthetic results. Forced eruption was performed to restore the alveolar height deficit and develop the compromised hard and soft tissues around teeth Nos. 6 and 8. The subperiosteal minimally invasive (a)esthetic ridge-augmentation technique (SMART) was subsequently used to provide horizontal bone augmentation while preserving the soft-tissue architecture. After bone-graft integration, immediate postextraction implants were placed at Nos. 6 and 8 using a flapless approach, and a screwretained long-term polymethylmethacrylate provisional prosthesis was delivered during the same appointment. The synergy of these combined therapies resulted in a complete tridimensional reconstruction of the defect. Gingival and alveolar volumes and gingival margin levels were successfully restored.

Subperiosteal Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Ridge Augmentation Technique (SMART): A New Standard for Bone Reconstruction of the Jaws.

Traditional guided bone regeneration techniques include flap mobilization and placement of a bone graft, often with the use of space-maintaining devices and cell-occlusive membranes. This approach is associated with frequent complications that negatively affect the outcome of the augmentation and the peri-implant soft tissue esthetics. Although current tunneling techniques have focused on periodontal soft tissue applications, earlier publications described their use for horizontal augmentation of mandibular posterior edentulous ridges in full-denture patients. More recently, the use of recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB) was tested with different bone matrices to treat maxillary anterior edentulous spans. The present case series reports the use of a subperiosteal minimally invasive aesthetic ridge augmentation technique (SMART) to treat 60 single and multiple edentulous, dentate, and implant sites on 21 patients and five treatment categories with a follow-up period ranging from 4 to 30 months. The technique includes the use of a laparoscopic approach to deliver a growth factor/xenograft combination into a subperiosteal pouch. No flap elevation, cell-occlusive membranes, space-maintaining devices, or decortication procedures were used. The results from this case series demonstrated predictable and consistent bone regeneration. The average gain in ridge width for all treatment categories was 5.11 mm (SD 0.76 mm), which compares favorably with previously published reports. Morbidity and complication rates were consistently reduced as well. Human histology results show xenograft particles surrounded by newly formed bone. The role of the periosteum as a source of pluripotent cells in growth factor­mediated bone regeneration is discussed.

Lingualized flapless implant placement into fresh extraction sockets preserves buccal alveolar bone: a cone beam computed tomography study.

The use of immediate placement and loading protocols in implant dentistry has increased during the past several years. However, limited information related to the response of the osseous architecture has been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fate of the buccal alveolar plate with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) following lingualized placement of implants into fresh extraction sockets using a flapless surgical approach and immediate nonocclusal loading. A total of 14 patients who required extraction of a single maxillary incisor were selected for this study. CBCT was performed preextraction, at the time of implant placement, and 6 months following implant surgery. The results of this study indicate that resorption of the buccal alveolar plate was not significant. It was therefore concluded that with strict patient selection and appropriate technique, predictable healing can be achieved with lingualized implant placement into fresh extraction sockets and immediate loading.

CBCT fractal dimension changes at the apex of immediate implants placed using undersized drilling.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate, on the base of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) fractal dimension, bone quality changes surrounding the apical portion of immediate implants placed under higher insertion torque utilizing an undersized drilling technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three patients were enrolled in this study. Single implants were placed into fresh extraction sockets in the anterior maxilla and provisionalized immediately. Adequate stability was ensured on all the implants by a 28.5% undersizing of the apical portion of the osteotomy. Bone quality at the most apical 1.15 mm peri-implant bone portion were measured by CBCT at placement and after 6 months. This analysis was carried out by evaluating the box counting fractal dimension of 15 consecutive CBCT slices related to the most apical part of each implant. RESULTS: All the three implants were successful after an 18-month follow-up period. The mean fractal dimension at the implant apex exhibited a 3% increase 6 months following placement. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of an explorative study, an undersized drilling resulting in high insertion torque would seem to induce no adverse changes in radiographic bone quality after 6 months of follow-up. The most favorable entity of drilling undersizing and its effect on peri-implant bone remodeling, should be evaluated on a larger patient population.

Predictable elastomeric impressions in advanced fixed prosthodontics: a comprehensive review.

Despite advances in dental material technology, the predictable procurement of accurate impressions for the fabrication of complex fixed prosthodontic restorations remains an elusive objective. The technical challenges and potential negative sequelae are exponentially magnified in advanced applications that involve multiple abutments and preparatory phases. A protocol for consistently achieving accurate impressions with the use of various impression materials and automatic instrumentation is presented and illustrated with multiple clinical examples. The technique is capable of yielding reliable results in extensive cases and requires minimal support from auxiliary personnel.

Laser-assisted gingival tissue procedures in esthetic dentistry.

Soft tissue lasers are increasing in popularity among clinicians in part due to their potential value in preprosthetic gingival procedures. The ability of soft tissue lasers to control moisture and facilitate hemostasis appears particularly promising for clinicians excising gingival tissues, performing esthetic crown lengthening, and using resective techniques for gingival troughing--and these applications will grow as practitioners become more familiar with such technologies. This presentation highlights the use of the 810 nm diode laser for perio-restorative procedures in the anterior maxilla.

Atraumatic ridge expansion and implant site preparation with motorized bone expanders.

The osteotome technique has been utilized for many years as a viable approach to expand atrophic ridges. Despite its effectiveness, the mechanical impact from the surgical mallet is not well tolerated by patients. Additionally, reports in the literature describe postoperative complications that include concussions and benign paroxysmal vertigo. These conditions can be alarming for the patient and clinician, as their effects may persist for several weeks. A new technique for atraumatic ridge expansion has been developed that introduces the surgical use of motor-driven instruments at low speeds.

Aesthetic crown lengthening: classification, biologic rationale, and treatment planning considerations.

UNLABELLED: The rationale for crown lengthening procedures has progressively become more aesthetic-driven due to the increasing popularity of smile enhancement therapy. Although the biologic requirements are similar to the functionally oriented exposure of sound tooth structure, aesthetic expectations require an increased emphasis on the appropriate diagnosis of the hard and soft tissue relationships, as well as the definitive restorative parameters to be achieved. The development of a clinically relevant aesthetic blueprint and attendant surgical guide is of paramount importance for the achievement of successful outcomes. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: This article provides a classification system that clinicians can use when treatment planning for aesthetic crown lengthening. Upon reading this article, the reader should have: A clear understanding of the involved biological structures. Didactic instruction on the classification and treatment planning for aesthetic crown lengthening procedures.

Aesthetic design preservation in multidisciplinary therapy: philosophy and clinical execution.

Complex perio-prosthetic cases that require multidisciplinary therapy often result in compromised aesthetics. Traditional treatment planning philosophies, as well as existing interdisciplinary relational patterns, do not promote the achievement of predictable aesthetic results. Implementation of a restorative-driven approach requires the development of an aesthetic blueprint that will serve as a guide through treatment. This article illustrates the clinical techniques and sequence for an outcome-based protocol that enhances therapeutic cohesiveness and ensures the sequential transfer of design objectives for the preservation of aesthetics in multidisciplinary therapy.