Recognition of risk factors and patient assessment

Abstract

Esthetic outcomes are of central importance to most patients. To ensure that patients' expectations are aligned with expected outcomes, a systematic risk assessment is required. Communication of the risk factors and expected outcomes is important to ensure the patient has realistic expectations. Risk reduction for implant therapy begins with collection of diagnostic information and sharing a comprehensive esthetic diagnosis with the patient. Esthetic risks for dental implants are often associated with the tissues that surround the implant, specifically the lack of interproximal tissue fill and the recession of buccal tissues following implant restoration. Diagnostic information regarding connective tissue attachment levels at adjacent teeth can clarify the risk for incomplete interproximal tissue fill, and steps to overcome buccal tissue recession include both augmentation procedures and proper dental implant placement. The establishment of ideal tooth contours for the implant crown is easily achieved when the proper volume of the supporting bone and soft tissue is provided. Integrating an ideal implant-supported restoration into a beautiful smile requires a comprehensive esthetic diagnosis, a broad approach to implant site development, and careful execution of the planned implant therapy.