Implant uncovery technique to correct facial soft tissue deficiency

The case presented is a 2 stage immediate dental implant placement.

Upon implant uncovery,  the top of the implant (cover screw) was covered by bone which was then removed.

The facial soft tissue presented an evident clinical deficiency. In similar cases when this type of tissue deficiencies are not corrected, this can lead to a less than acceptable esthetic result of the area restored.

We utilized a technique that we feel comfortable with to restore this type of deficiencies, in which we augment the facial soft tissue thickness at the time of implant uncover.

Steps:
1. De-epithelialize the crestal portion of the soft tissue (exposing CT)
2. Elevate a mini flap (with 2 small vertical incisions)
3. Split the CT from the mini flap without separating each other
4. Create a facial pouch with split thickness flap
5. Rotate the CT into the facial pouch
6. Place the healing abutment
7. Suture the flap into position

Materials used:
- Implant: Legacy 3 (Implant Direct)
- Sutures: Gut 4.0

Best,
Ioannis