DGI-Expertenforum 2005: Implants in the Esthetic Zone

Topics of Roundtable Discussion

• Risk Analysis
• Requirements in Critical Situations
• Ensuring Bone Preservation in Augmentation
• Soft - Tissue Healing

Contents
The experts of the roundtable moderated by Dr. Gerhard M. Iglhaut fi rst discussed the question of the best techniques to use when placing implants in the esthetic zone, especially in cases where the alveole is intact. In the course of the discussion, it became clear that no generally valid procedure could be delineated. An individualized approach is absolutely necessary due, not least, to the possibility of bone resorption and the need for soft - tissue management. Delayed immediate placement, for example, should be considered in critical situations and is also acceptable from a periodontal perspective. When augmentation is performed, measures to ensure bone preservation are imperative; at the very least, this should consist of temporary stabilization. The question of whether soft - tissue augmentation should be performed prior to bone augmentation was also discussed. In the last third of the discussion, the experts debated over whether the placement of two implants (side-by-side) in the esthetic zone is esthetically acceptable or not, and whether surgical or prosthetic solutions achieve better results. All of the experts agreed that further technological advances are needed before the placement of implants in the esthetic zone can be perfected, as determined based on economic as well as scientifi c criteria.