Conservative interdisciplinary management for a congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisor in an adolescent patient.

A congenitally missing lateral incisor tooth is commonly associated with both short and long-term clinical dilemmas, particularly for a growing patient. A unilaterally missing maxillary lateral incisor tooth creates a significant dental asymmetry in the critical aesthetic zone of the smile and potentially increases the difficulty of any subsequent orthodontic and restorative treatment. Carefully planned interdisciplinary management is required to address the challenges of anterior dental asymmetry, unilateral orthodontic space closure and to alleviate the concerns that accompany restorative implant placement in the anterior maxilla. The use of skeletal temporary anchorage devices has increased the predictability of orthodontic space closure, particularly for missing maxillary lateral incisor cases which were previously considered to be unsuitable.

3D-printed customised titanium mesh and bone ring technique for bone augmentation of combined bone defects in the aesthetic zone.

PURPOSE: Complex bone defects with a horizontal and vertical combined deficiency pose a clinical challenge in implant dentistry. This study reports the case of a young female patient who presented with a perforating bone defect in the aesthetic zone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on prosthetically guided bone regeneration, virtual 3D bone augmentation was planned. A 3D printed customised titanium mesh and the autogenous bone ring technique were then utilised simultaneously to achieve a customised bone contour. After 6 months, the titanium mesh was removed and connective tissue grafting was performed. Finally, implants were placed and the provisional and definitive prostheses were delivered following a digital approach. Vertical and horizontal bone gain, new bone density, pseudo-periosteum type and marginal bone loss were measured. Planned bone volume, regenerated bone volume and regeneration rate were analysed. RESULTS: Staged tooth shortening led to a coronal increase in keratinised mucosa. The customised titanium mesh and bone ring technique yielded 14.27 mm vertical bone gain and 12.9 mm horizontal bone gain in the perforating area. When the titanium mesh was removed, the reopening surgery showed a Type 1 pseudo-periosteum (none or < 1 mm), and CBCT scans revealed a new bone density of ~550 HU. With a planned bone volume of 1063.55 mm3, the regenerated bone volume was 969.29 mm3, indicating a regeneration rate of 91.14%. The 1-year follow-up after definitive restoration revealed no complications except for 0.55 to 0.60 mm marginal bone loss. CONCLUSION: Combined application of customised titanium mesh and an autogenous bone ring block shows promising potential to achieve prosthetically guided bone regeneration for complex bone defects in the aesthetic zone.

Modified Palatal Roll Flap: A Novel Technique for Horizontal Ridge Augmentation.

The Abrams' palatal roll technique has undergone significant changes over time and is routinely utilized to widen peri-implant soft tissues in the maxillary aesthetic zone. The described technique involves the use of a de-epithelized pedicled connective tissue flap from the palate and rolling it under the labial oral mucosa to increase the soft tissue bulk. It is an easy and efficient technique that improves gingival thickness and contour in the aesthetic region and is a great substitute for areas lacking gingival soft tissue. Furthermore, this technique eliminates the need for a second surgical site to harvest the connective tissue graft for soft tissue augmentation. This study reports a clinical case where the modified roll technique was used for horizontal ridge augmentation.

Immediate implant placement with immediate or delayed provisionalization in the maxillary aesthetic zone: A 10-year randomized trial.

AIM: To compare the marginal bone level of immediately placed implants, with either immediate or delayed provisionalization (IP or DP), in the maxillary aesthetic zone after 10 years of function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants with a failing tooth in the maxillary aesthetic zone were randomly assigned to immediate implant placement with either IP (n = 20) or DP (n = 20) after primary wound closure with a free gingival graft. The final restoration was placed 3 months after provisionalization. The primary outcome was change in marginal bone level. In addition, implant survival, restoration survival and success, peri-implant tissue health, mucosa levels, aesthetic indices, buccal bone thickness and patient satisfaction were evaluated. RESULTS: After 10 years, the mean mesial and distal changes in marginal bone level were -0.47 ± 0.45 mm and -0.49 ± 0.52 mm in the IP group and -0.58 ± 0.76 mm and -0.41 ± 0.72 mm in the DP group (p = .61; p = .71). The survival rate was 100% for the implants; for the restorations, it was 88.9% in the IP group and 87.5% in the DP group. Restoration success, according to modified USPHS criteria, was 77.8% in the IP group and 75.0% in the DP group. The prevalence of peri-implant mucositis was 38.9% and 35.7% and of peri-implantitis 0.0% and 6.3%, respectively, in the IP group and DP group (p = 1.0; p = .40). The Pink Esthetic Score and White Esthetic Score was 15.28 ± 2.32 in the IP group and 14.64 ± 2.74 in the DP group, both clinically acceptable (p = .48). The buccal bone thickness was lower in the DP group. Patient satisfaction was similar in both groups (p = .75). CONCLUSIONS: The mean marginal bone level changes after immediate implant placement with IP were similar to those after immediate placement with DP. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered in the National Trial Register (NL9340).

Difference in Buccal Gingival Thickness between the Mandible and Maxilla in the Aesthetic Zone: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Fragile gingival tissue is a risk factor for the development of gingival recessions. Despite the fact that gingival recessions are more commonly seen around anterior mandibular teeth, previous research has predominantly concentrated on the gingival dimensions in the anterior maxilla. The objective was to systematically compare buccal gingival thicknesses between the upper and lower jaws in individuals with healthy gingival conditions in the aesthetic zone. Methods: A comprehensive search of three databases was carried out until October 2023. Gingival thickness differences between the maxilla and mandible were evaluated by calculating the mean differences along with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analysis was conducted based on the measurement area, measurement method, and tooth category. Results: A total of seventeen studies were included in this systematic review. Eleven studies were included in the quantitative analysis. Quantitative analysis comparing gingival thickness around 2100 teeth in the anterior mandible to 2056 teeth in the anterior maxilla revealed a statistically significant thinner buccal gingiva in the mandible (mean difference: 0.16 mm; 95% CI [-0.24, -0.07]; p = 0.0003). Conclusions: The present systematic review revealed a more delicate buccal gingiva in the anterior mandible. However, further scientific validation is required due to the considerable heterogeneity in study design and the potential presence of confounding variables.

Excision of Pyogenic Granuloma (PG) With Diode Laser on the Lower Lip in an Unusual Location: A Case Report.

Pyogenic granuloma (PG) is a tumor with regular growth expressed usually in the oral cavity, expressing characteristics of a non-neoplastic lesion. The first treatment option is surgical excision, which can be proceeded with surgical diode lasers (940 nm). This case report focuses on the surgical excision of a PG located in the lower lip using diode lasers. Post-operative follow-up of 6 months demonstrated adequate healing without esthetical compromise and no lesion recurrence, showing that diode lasers can be a safe and effective alternative for PG removal.

Anterior Aesthetic Zone Reconstruction with Allogenic Bone Shell and Autogenous Bone Chips - An Evaluative Study.

Introduction: Horizontal alveolar bone loss hinders dental implant placement. Reconstruction of alveolar deficiency is mandatory to establish an ideal foundation for implant-supported prosthetic restoration. The aim of this study is to evaluate the regenerated bone following anterior aesthetic zone reconstruction with allogenic bone shell and autogenous chips. Materials and Methods: A total of 15 deficient sites in the aesthetic zone were treated using allograft bone shells, which were fixed away from the alveolar ridge using microscrews, and the created gap was filled with autogenous chips harvested intraorally using a bone scraper. Results: Clinically, one patient experienced wound dehiscence in the second post-operative week, and the graft had to be removed one month postoperatively due to infection. Three patients experienced shell detachment six months later but that did not hinder the placement of an implant. Radiographically, there was horizontal bone gain that was statistically significant six months postoperatively. The mean apical bone gain was 2.64 mm (±0.99 standard deviation [SD]). The mean mid-level bone gain was 3.44 mm (±0.52 SD). The mean crestal bone gain was 2.36 mm (±0.85 SD). Histologically, vital trabecular bone tissue with osteocytes and osteoblasts was detected. Moreover, the presence of reversal lines indicated bone formation and remodelling after grafting. Discussion: This technique generates sufficient bone tissue in previously horizontally deficient alveolar ridges for subsequent implant placement and omits the need for a second surgical site with its consequent morbidity. The low complication rate reported needs further modifications to extrapolate results.

Explantación de implante mal posicionado en sector estético y regeneración posterior con injerto en bloque. Caso clínico / Explantation of a malpositioned implant in the aesthetic sector and regeneration with bone block grafting. Clinical case

La realización de una explantación en el sector estético produce un defecto óseo que en muchas ocasiones deja un área para la rehabilitación con implantes que debe ser regenerado a través de diferen tes procedimientos. El injerto en bloque puede ser una alternativa en los casos donde se precise regeneración ósea ver tical y horizontal de forma simultánea. En el presente caso clínico se muestra la explantación de un implante mal posicio nado en el sector estético, de imposible rehabilitación que debe ser retirado, regenerándose posteriormente el defecto para poder posicionar un nuevo implante, esta vez en una situación que permita una rehabilitación predecible y estéticamente satisfactoria (AU)

Performing an explantation in the aesthetic sector produces a defect that often leaves a bone loss that must be regenerated through different procedures. Bone block grafting can be an alternative in cases where simultaneous vertical and horizontal bone regeneration is required. In this clinical case we show the explantation of a poorly positioned implant in the aesthetic sector, impossible to rehabilitate, which must be explanted and the defect subsequently regenerated so that a new implant can be positioned, this time in a situation that allows us a predictable and aesthetically satisfactory rehabilitation (AU)

Anterior tooth autotransplantation: a case series.

Tooth autotransplantation is the technique of transplanting embedded, impacted or erupted teeth from one site into another in the same individual. It is relatively common for the anterior segment of the mouth to be affected by traumatic tooth injuries, impacted and/or congenitally missing permanent teeth. Autotransplantation of teeth into the anterior dental arch can provide unrivalled biological solutions when such issues arise in this critical aesthetic zone, particularly for adolescent patients. The combination of meticulous pre-surgical assessment, synergistic interdisciplinary collaboration and carefully performed anterior tooth autotransplantation has been demonstrated to achieve impressive outcomes, with respect to both transplant survival and clinical success. © 2023 Australian Dental Association.

Application of computer-aided design and 3D-printed template for accurate bone augmentation in the aesthetic region of anterior teeth.

PURPOSE: To explore the outcomes of bone augmentation in the aesthetic zone of the anterior teeth using computer-aided design and a 3D-printed template. METHODS: Ten patients with severe bone defects in the aesthetic zone of anterior teeth were included in the study; CT data were collected before surgery. The design of the osteotomy line in the bone defect area was determined under computer simulation. The position parameters and osteotomy line of the free bone were determined via virtual surgery. A 3D-printed template was prepared to guide the accurate placement of the bone graft. Reexamination was conducted to evaluate the position of the bone graft immediately after the operation and the resorbed capacity of the bone graft before implant restoration. RESULTS: The position of the bone graft was consistent with the preoperative design. The amount of bone graft resorbed was within the acceptable range three months after the operation, and the effect of implant restoration was satisfactory. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Use of computer-aided design and a 3D-printed template can be an effective approach for accurate bone augmentation in the aesthetic zone of the anterior teeth.

Anterior Maxillary Labial Bone Thickness on Cone Beam Computed Tomography.

AIM: The objective of this research was to measure the labial bone thickness (LBT) in relation to the 6 anterior maxillary teeth at different levels along the long axis and the distance between cementoenamel junction and bone crest (CEJ-BC) based on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans retrieved from patients of Arab ethnicity and identify any association with patients' characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 CBCT scans were evaluated by one calibrated examiner. The thickness of the labial bone was measured perpendicular to the long axis of the tooth at 1, 3, and 5 mm from the alveolar crest (LBT-1, LBT-3, and LBT-5, respectively) and CEJ-BC using a medical imaging viewer. RESULTS: CBCT scans of 58 female patients and 42 male patients with a mean age of 39.7 ± 9.5 years were included. A high variation of CEJ-BC was observed (range, 0.55-3.90 mm). Statistically significant higher CEJ-BC values were associated with men and increased age (>50 years). The overall means of LBT-1 were 0.76 ± 0.26, 0.79 ± 0.26, and 0.83 ± 0.37 mm; LBT-3: 0.92 ± 0.36, 1.05 ± 0.46, and 1.03 ± 0.48 mm; LBT-5: 1.17 ± 0.52, 0.80 ± 0.45, and 0.81 ± 0.40 mm for central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines, respectively. The LBT was <1 mm in 74.2% of all maxillary anterior teeth, with central incisors showing the highest predilection (85% with LBT <1 mm). No significant association between LBT and patient characteristics was observed. CONCLUSIONS: The CEJ-BC distance is greater in men and increases with age, particularly in those aged 50 years and older. The LBT in the 6 maxillary anterior teeth is predominantly thin (<1 mm) and has no correlation to age or sex. An increased LBT was observed at a 3-mm level when compared with LBT-1 and LBT-5. Such variability should be taken into consideration when planning for implant placement.

Evaluation of the Clinical Success of Immediate Loading Implant in the Aesthetic Zone: An In Vivo Study.

Aim: The aim of the current study was to assess the clinical success of immediate loading implant in the esthetic zone. Materials and Methods: 20 patients with 20 teeth to get replaced were selected for the study. All patients underwent a pre-surgical preparation followed by draping. Following stringent asepsis, necessary precaution was taken to not to injure the socket wall while removal of tooth. After removal, socket was thoroughly cleaned and curetted with saline and betadine. Using physiodispenser and drills, socket was properly prepared for implant insertion taking care of irrigation with saline to avoid heating of socket while drilling. Implants were then placed with initial stability with hand motion followed by complete insertion with hand ratchet. Black silk sutures were used to close the socket. Patients underwent the first control one week after surgery. They were recalled at the 1st, 3rd and 6th months to evaluate the following parameters to assess the success of immediate implant placement: mobility, soft tissue conditions (gingival index and probing pocket depth (PPD)), and a graded scale ranging from "very satisfied" to "very unsatisfied" were employed to subjectively evaluate patient contentedness. Results: During the 1st and 3rd months, 100% mobility was absent. But on the 6th month, the implant of 3 patients (15%) was mobile. The maximum gingival index score was noted in the 1st month (1.02 ± 0.01) and reduced more in the 3rd month (0.74 ± 0.08). The probing depth was more in the 1st month (3.88 ± 0.10) and it was reduced in the 3rd month (3.02 ± 0.12). Significant difference was not found between different times of intervals. 14 patients were very satisfied, 5 patients were fairly satisfied, and 1 was fairly unsatisfied. Conclusion: The current study concluded that immediate implant placement in the esthetic zone has a better success rate with good patient acceptance.

Horizontal ridge augmentation in the anterior maxilla with in situ onlay bone grafting: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to introduce a digitally guided in situ autogenous onlay grafting technique and compare its effectiveness with the conventional (ex situ) onlay technique in augmenting horizontal bone defects of the anterior maxilla. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 24 patients who had received autogenous onlay bone grafts combined with guided bone regeneration (GBR) in the anterior maxilla. Fourteen patients were recruited into the in situ onlay grafting group (EG), and 10 were recruited into the ex situ onlay group (CG), defined by the donor sites. The clinical parameters, radiographic changes, micro-CT, and histological processes were evaluated after a mean follow-up period of 1.7 years. RESULTS: The horizontal bone width reflected significant bone modeling over time (p < 0.001) in the first 6 months. Multivariable analysis showed that the treatment modality (grouping) was a critical factor positively associated with vertical bone height alteration. However, neither the alteration rate of horizontal bone width nor the bone volume was associated with the treatment modality. The number of periosteal screws per graft positively affected horizontal contour maintenance (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in the clinical parameters (complications, success rate, and peri-implant parameters). The micro-CT and histological outcomes were similar between the groups. CONCLUSION: Despite the limitations of this study, in situ onlay grafting combined with GBR was an effective and reliable approach for horizontal bone augmentation in the anterior maxilla and appeared to demonstrate better stability in vertical bone remodeling. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study introduces a modified and minimally invasive technique of onlay grafting for horizontal bone augmentation. This in situ onlay grafting demonstrates superior stability in vertical bone remodeling. The trial registration number is ChiCTR2100054683.

Clinical efficacy of the socket shield technique used in the aesthetic zone: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To systematically review and analyse the efficacy of the socket shield technique in conjunction with immediate implant placement in the aesthetic zone in randomised controlled trials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2020. All randomised controlled trials reporting on immediate implantation with the socket shield technique in the aesthetic zone, with at least 15 patients and a 6-month follow-up, were included and analysed. A meta-analysis was then performed using both fixed and random effects models to evaluate the differences in buccal plate height, buccal plate width and pink aesthetic score between immediate implant placement with the socket shield technique and the conventional immediate implant placement technique. RESULTS: Four randomised controlled trials were included and underwent quantitative analysis in the present systematic review and meta-analysis. When compared with the conventional immediate implantation group, the buccal plate height and buccal plate width for the socket shield technique group were statistically significant, with an overall increase of 0.57 mm (95% confidence interval -0.73 to -0.40) and 0.21 mm (95% confidence interval -0.26 to -0.16), respectively, at 6 months. Moreover, the pink aesthetic score for the socket shield technique group improved significantly by 1.59 points (95% confidence interval 0.05 to 3.15) at 6 months, and also demonstrated a statistically significant increase of 1.39 points (95% confidence interval 0.32 to 2.46) compared to the control group at the medium-term follow-up (12 to 36 months). CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggest that the socket shield technique has the potential to maintain buccal tissue contours and peri-implant tissue stability, improving functional and aesthetic outcomes in the aesthetic zone compared with the conventional immediate implant placement technique.

Mechanical Factors Implicated in Zirconia Implant Fracture Placed within the Anterior Region-A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: To analyze the fracture resistance of zirconia implants within the anterior region and evaluate whether zirconia-zirconia implants can be a viable alternative to titanium implants. METHODS: Four online databases (Cochrane Library, Ovid, PubMed, and Scopus) were searched for the period of January 2011 to July 2021. All studies that analyzed the in vivo clinical outcome of two-piece implants in the anterior region in English language were included. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 242 studies. Of these studies, three studies were included for qualitative synthesis based on the pre-determined eligibility criteria. The results showed that there is significant difference in biological results, fractal behavior and other complications between one-piece and two-piece zirconia implants. Two-piece zirconia implants demonstrated favorable longevity and success rates within anterior maxillary in short-term trials. CONCLUSIONS: Although factors involved in fractures have been identified-sandblasting, implant diameter, occlusal load, age and implant coating-there is limited quantitative assessment to gauge the fracture resistance of two-piece zirconia implants. Hence, further research with long-term clinical evidence is required.

Socket shield technique: A systemic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical feasibility of the socket shield technique (SST). STUDY SELECTION: An electronic search of the PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Wiley Online Library databases, and a manual reference search for articles published up to September 2020 was conducted. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate marginal bone loss (MBL), changes in buccal bone width (cBBW), pink esthetic score (PES), implant stability quotient (ISQ), implant failure rate, and complication rate between SST and conventional immediate implant placement (IIP). All pooled analyses were based on random effects models. RESULTS: Sixteen relevant studies were ultimately selected by two independent reviewers: four randomized clinical trials (RCTs), four case-control studies, and eight retrospective studies. Meta-analysis revealed a trend toward lower MBL and cBBW and higher PES in the SST group. ISQ, implant failure rate, and complication rate were similar between the groups. CONCLUSION: The included studies provided evidence that SST may be a feasible treatment option. However, this technique should not be used as a routine clinical protocol due to the lack of evidence-based consensus guidelines, large-scale RCTs, and long-term follow-up data. Therefore, there is an urgent need for well-conducted RCTs in this field.

Clinical outcomes of immediate implantation and provisionalization combined with guided bone regeneration for a single anterior maxillary tooth with a thin facial bone phenotype / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To study the postoperative soft and hard tissue changes and aesthetic effect of immediate implantation and provisionalization (IIPP) combined with guided bone regeneration (GBR) for a single anterior maxillary tooth with a thin facial bone phenotype.@*Methods @# A total of 34 patients with thin facial bone (<1 mm) were categorized into two groups: a flapped GBR group and a flapless group. Tooth extraction and IIPP were conducted at the sites in both groups. Implant survival rates, dimensional changes in soft and hard tissues during the six- and twelve-month follow-ups, the pink esthetic score (PES) and patient satisfaction scores at the twelve-month follow-up were measured.@*Results @#The implant survival rates were 100% in both groups, and no complications occurred during the 12 months after surgery. The facial bone thickness remained over 2 mm on all measured sides, and the height of the facial bone crest remained at 1.39 mm at the 12-month follow-up in the flapped GBR group, while the facial bone thickness remained less than 2 mm on all measured sides, and the height of the facial bone crest remained at 1.03 mm at the 12-month follow-up in the flapless group. The absorption of facial bone at all measured sides in the flapped GBR group was greater than that in the flapless group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the dimensional changes of labial soft tissues during the six- and twelve-month follow-ups (P>0.05). The mean PES scores were 10.29 ± 2.34 for the flap GBR group and 10.12±1.78 for the flapless group (P = 0.807). The mean patient satisfaction scores were 8.65 ± 1.27 in the flapped GBR group and 8.76 ± 1.25 in the flapless group, and the patients in both of the groups were satisfied with the esthetic outcomes (P = 0.787). @*Conclusion @#IIPP combined with GBR might be a prospective treatment strategy for a single anterior maxillary tooth with a thin facial bone phenotype, but the esthetic risks should never be ignored.

Linear and profilometric changes of the mucosa following soft tissue augmentation in the zone of aesthetic priority: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the outcomes of soft tissue augmentation, in terms of change in level and thickness of mid-buccal mucosa, at implants sites in the zone of the aesthetic priority. MATERIAL AND METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched (last search on 1 June 2020). Inclusion criteria were studies reporting outcomes of different materials and timing of grafting in patients undergoing soft tissue augmentation at implant sites in the aesthetic zone with a follow-up of ≥1 year after implant placement. Outcome measures assessed included changes in level and thickness of mid-buccal mucosa, implant survival, peri-implant health and patients' satisfaction. RESULTS: Eighteen out of 2,185 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in vertical mid-buccal soft tissue change (0.34 mm, 95% CI: 0.13-0.56, p = .002) and mid-buccal mucosa thickness (0.66 mm, 95% CI: 0.35-0.97, p < .001) following immediate implant placement in favour of the use of a graft versus no graft. Mean difference in mid-buccal mucosa level following delayed implant placement (0.17 mm, 95% CI: 0.01-0.34, p = .042) was also in favour of the use of a graft versus no graft. With regard to mucosa thickness, the use of a graft was not in favour compared with no graft following delayed implant placement (0.22 mm, 95% CI: -0.04-0.47, p = .095). Observed changes remained stable in the medium term. CONCLUSION: Soft tissue augmentation in the zone of the aesthetic priority results in less recession and a thicker mid-buccal mucosa following immediate implant placement and less recession in mid-buccal mucosa following delayed implant placement compared with no graft.

A 5 to 7-year case series on single angulated implants installed following papilla-sparing flap elevation.

BACKGROUND: Bony concavities at the buccal aspect may cause a distortion between the implant axis and ideal prosthetic axis. Angulated implants can overcome this problem, yet long-term data are lacking. In addition, papilla-sparing incisions have been proposed to reduce tissue loss, yet aesthetic outcomes have not been published. PURPOSE: To evaluate the 5 to 7-year outcome of single angulated implants installed following papilla-sparing flap elevation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who had been consecutively treated with a single angulated implant (Co-axis®, Southern Implants, Irene, South Africa) in the anterior maxilla were re-examined after 5 to 7 years. Available data at 1 year (T1) were compared to those obtained at 5 to 7 years (T2). RESULTS: Twenty out of 22 treated patients (11 females, 9 males, mean age of 52) with 22 implants attended the 5 to 7-year reassessment. All implants survived and stable clinical conditions could be reached with mean marginal bone loss of 1.28 mm at T2. Papilla-sparing flap elevation resulted in Pink Esthetic Score of 9.83 at T1 and 8.23 at T2 (p = 0.072). Mucosal Scarring Index was 4.61 at T1 and 3.50 at T2 (p = 0.165). The overall appearance of scarring significantly improved over time (p = 0.032), yet 59% of the cases still demonstrated scarring at T2.c CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of the study, angulated implants (Co-axis®, Southern Implants) reached stable clinical conditions. Papilla-sparing incisions may not be recommended in aesthetically demanding patients due to high risk of scarring.

Efficacy of different surgical techniques for peri-implant tissue preservation in immediate implant placement: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Preserving peri-implant tissues after immediate implant placement (IIP), especially in aesthetic zones, is a topic of interest. OBJECTIVES: This systematic review investigated the effects of currently available surgical procedures for preserving peri-implant tissue or ensuring dimensional stability following immediate implant placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement's guidelines were followed, and articles were sought on the PubMed and Cochrane databases with no date restrictions. Only randomised clinical trials that evaluated changes in soft and hard tissues around immediately placed implants were included. Statistical analyses were performed, and the studies´ quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The agreement between reviewers was assessed based on Cohen's kappa statistics. RESULTS: Of the 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria, 11 were analysed in the meta-analysis (kappa = 0.814; almost perfect agreement). The use of connective tissue grafts resulted in a significantly greater improvement of the facial gingival level (MD = -0.51; 95% CI: -0.76 to -0.31; p = < .001), and the placement of bone grafts significantly reduced the horizontal resorption of the buccal bone (MD = -0.59; 95% CI: -0.78 to -0.39; p < .001). CONCLUSION: Connective tissue grafts and bone grafts positively influence tissue preservation around immediately placed implants. Neither the flapless technique nor palatal implant positioning resulted in significant improvements to any of the investigated parameters. Additional longitudinal studies are required. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This meta-analysis is useful for discerning the effects of soft tissue augmentation, bone grafting, the flapless technique, and palatal implant positioning on preserving peri-implant tissues after immediate implant placement.