A 68-year-old patient (R.A.) presented with masticatory pain localized to tooth 3.6. The tooth served as an abutment for a metal-ceramic bridge (PFM) with a mesial cantilever on 3.5 and a distal cantilever on 3.6. Radiographic examination revealed an extensive area of periapical osteolysis of endo-periodontal origin, leading to the indication for tooth extraction. To restore function and aesthetics in the area, the treatment plan called for the placement of two implants in sites 3.5 and 3.7 to support a fixed prosthesis.
Concurrently with the extraction of tooth 3.6, a full-thickness flap was elevated to allow for the placement of two implants: an IK3408 at site 3.7 and an IK3410 at site 3.5. The use of titanium retractors prevented any risk of damage to the inferior alveolar nerve. During the exposure phase, a partial-thickness flap was dissected and positioned apically to the alveolar crest to increase the width of the keratinized (attached) gingiva around the implants. Follow-up imaging at 5 years confirms the successful restoration of both aesthetics and masticatory function.
