Work

Implant Placement and Immediate Provisionalization After Alveolar Ridge Reconstruction in the Aesthetic Zone Using a Digital Workflow: A 1‐Year Prospective Case Series Study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: In single-tooth replacement in the aesthetic zone, extensive bone defects require alveolar ridge reconstruction. A digital workflow involving CBCT and intraoral optical scanning enables a three-dimensional assessment, prosthetically driven implant positioning, computer-assisted implant surgery, and prefabrication of a temporary restoration for immediate provisionalization. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical, aesthetic, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes of delayed implant placement and immediate provisionalization in reconstructed alveolar ridges using a digital workflow. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a prospective case series, 30 patients with a > 5 mm buccal bone defect underwent alveolar ridge reconstruction. After 4 months, implant placement was performed using a digital workflow, followed by immediate provisionalization with a prefabricated temporary restoration, and definitive restoration 3 months later. The clinical, aesthetic, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed pre-treatment, 6 weeks after provisionalization, and 1 month and 1 year following definitive restoration. RESULTS: Wound healing was uneventful in 90% of cases (10% showed mild oedema). One early implant failure occurred (implant survival rate 97%). After 1 year, restoration survival and success rates were 100% and 97%. Peri-implant tissues were mainly healthy. The mean (SD) Pink and White Esthetic Score (scale 0-20) was 14.0 (2.9). The mean (SD) marginal bone level change was -0.25 mm (0.38) mesially and -0.21 mm (0.45) distally. The median buccal bone thickness was > 1.5 mm. Patient satisfaction (scale 0-10) was 9.3 (0.9). CONCLUSION: A digital workflow offers favorable short-term clinical, aesthetic, radiographic, and patient-reported outcomes for single-tooth implants after alveolar ridge reconstruction. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered in the National Trial Register: NL8264.

Source: Clinical Oral Implants Research

DOI: 10.1111/clr.70099

Authors: Vincent J. J. Donker, Henny J. A. Meijer, Arjan Vissink, Gerry M. Raghoebar

Institutions: University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen

Language: English

Topic: Dental Implant Techniques and Outcomes

Subfield: Oral Surgery

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,170