A digital approach for 1-step formation of the supraimplant emergence profile at the time of immediate implant placement

Abstract An optimal soft tissue profile is essential for obtaining optimal esthetics in anterior implant-supported restorations. Commercially available cylindrical healing abutments do not mimic the shape of natural teeth and may create a poor peri-implant emergence. This article introduces a digital protocol to improve the formation of the supraimplant emergence profile with an individualized healing abutment fabricated by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture (CAD-CAM) at the time of implant placement. A benefit of this technique is obtaining optimal morphology of the peri-implant soft tissues, especially for teeth with increased horizontal overlap.