Background. The esthetic replacement of teeth has become an important standard for implant dentistry. While defining this goal has not been difficult, the ability to restore implants esthetically has been fraught with obstacles and sometimes has not been attainable. The purpose of this review is to summarize essential anatomical and surgical considerations for cosmetic implant dentistry.
Methods. This article provides a summary of the predominant findings from clinical studies and case reports that help develop implant surgical guidelines for better esthetic outcomes.
Results. Soft- and hard-tissue requirements for placing an implant in an ideal position are defined. The authors discuss the best treatment approaches as well as the limitations associated with esthetic implant placement. They evaluate the available data specifically for the maxillary anterior sextant, since this anatomical region has higher esthetic demands.
Conclusions. Several parameters and various surgical techniques have been developed to manipulate soft- and hard-tissue contours and to control the esthetic outcome for implant-supported restorations.
Clinical Implications. It is essential for practitioners to understand the anatomical basis for and limitations of implant dentistry in the esthetic zone.
