Aesthetic outcome of single tooth replacement in the aesthetic zone: Preservation vs. reconstruction

The replacement of a failing anterior tooth by means of a dental implant is one of the most challenging treatments clinicians face nowadays, as the aesthetic expectations of patients are increasing. Nevertheless, the timing of extraction of a failing anterior tooth in relation to the placement of a dental implant and its impact on aesthetic outcomes has been extensively evaluated. The aim of this lecture is to depict an evidence-based analysis, illustrated with clinical cases, of the aesthetic outcomes that can be expected depending on the alveolar architecture present at the time of extraction, the need for regenerative therapy and the timing of implant placement.

Learning objectives:

• Understanding the importance of alveolar architecture in the aesthetic outcome of a single tooth replacement.
• Comparing aesthetic outcomes of implant placement in the aesthetic zone based on the time of extraction.
• Understanding the aesthetic outcome of preservative and regenerative treatment philosophies.