Emergence profile design based on implant position in the esthetic zone.

One of the most challenging tasks in implant dentistry is to fulfill the esthetic expectations of patients. While implant positioning and adequate amounts of soft and hard tissues are essential for achieving an esthetic outcome, the emergence profile of an abutment/restoration also plays an important role in the definitive appearance of implant prostheses. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to propose a clinical guideline for designing an abutment/prosthesis based on implant position. By customizing the emergence profile, the overlying soft tissues could be properly contoured and maintained, and pleasing implant prostheses could be achieved.