The emergence profile directly influences the architecture of the soft tissues and, therefore, the overall aesthetics and natural appearance of an implant-supported restoration. Beyond trying to imitate the natural contours of the soft tissue of the adjacent teeth, the anatomical design of the emergence profile and the physicochemical properties of the materials used also condition the marginal bone stability and other important clinical parameters.
Recent publications have sparked a heated debate about the ideal dimensions of the emergence profile, including the height of the abutment, the correct angulations, and the most appropriate morphology, in order to prevent biological and mechanical complications. In the absence of a robust level of evidence on certain points, some of the parameters used to design the profiles, both during the provisional and definitive phases, are still based on personal clinical experience.
There are likely different designs and material combinations that can achieve successful clinical outcomes. However, in all of them, respecting certain concepts based on the knowledge of the histology and physiology of peri-implant tissues is the key to ensuring that the initial aesthetic result lasts for years in good health.
This talk will review these principles and how they can be applied to daily clinical practice in a practical, simple, and reproducible way.
CV