The use of a zirconia custom implant-supported fixed partial denture prosthesis to treat implant failure in the anterior maxilla: a clinical report.

Over the last decade, there has been a dramatic rise in patients' esthetic expectations with regard to both conventional and implant prosthodontics. The loss of hard and/or soft tissue dimensions, often unpredictably, around implants, can result in potential embarrassment due to the display of metal components. Patients are understandably reluctant to accept visibility of metal abutments and/or the implant substructures, especially in the esthetic zone, even if biologically sound. The use of 1-piece zirconia implant frameworks or, alternatively, custom zirconia abutments with a zirconia framework, has enabled both a good biological response as well as the ability to improve the esthetic outcome. This clinical report demonstrates the use of a 1-piece zirconia implant-supported fixed partial denture in the anterior maxilla, with minimal soft tissue dimension above the implant shoulder level, which dictated the need for prosthetic soft tissue augmentation.