Current Approaches Used to Transfer the Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Emergence Profile to the Impressions in Esthetic Zone

Abstract

It is crucial to transfer the emergence profile to the impression in addition to the implant position in implant-supported fixed restorations in esthetic zone. Current developments in digital dentistry is providing alternatives to conventional impression methods. Peri-implant soft tissue emergence profile (PSTEP) can be transferred with digital impression techniques. Implant position, surrounding hard and soft tissue contours, and emergence profile cannot be recorded with a single impression as in direct and indirect conventional impression methods. Soft tissue contours surrounding the implant and PSTEP can be recorded with an intraoral scanner after the removal of provisional restoration, this method is called the direct protocol. In the indirect protocol, the tissue surface of the provisional restoration is recorded outside the mouth. The position and angle of the implant should be recorded with an implant scanbody which is screw tightened on the implant. Definitive model is formed by superimposition of all scans obtained. When implant scanbodies are used with appropriate implant systems, accurate results can be achieved according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Implant scanbodies have been developed with various characteristics in terms of material type, geometric design, surface properties, length-diameter, and tightening torque. The use of digital systems in the impressions of implant-supported fixed restorations increases patient comfort and provides a fast workflow.