A novel approach for soft tissue management in the anterior region

A 33 year-old male patient's chief complaint was a missing lateral incisor which had been extracted several years earlier. The site presented significant loss of hard and soft tissues which could eventually compromise the aesthetic result of implant treatment. The overall health status was good and there was no concomittant oral disease; therefore, a one-stage implant procedure simultaneous to connective tissue grafting and the use of a slim healing abutment was planned.

Hard and soft tissue healing was uneventful, with significant regain in facial soft tissue contour and maintenance of interproximal bone and papilla height. A screw-retained final crown with an angulated screw-channel abutment was planned. This allowed for the palatal repositioning of the screw-access hole without the need for a cement-retained restoration.

The patient was very satisfied with the overall treatment result, the final crown being harmonic with regards to the contralateral tooth, and the soft tissues displaying a healthy and natural appearance.