Titanium-reinforced interdental peaks as a simple method for papilla preservation.

Esthetic failure within the esthetic zone can be caused by the presence of interdental black triangles due to the loss of interdental papillae. The position of the osseous crest represents the main determinant for the papilla height, and, therefore, interdental bone peaks should be preserved both during and following dental treatment. Osseointegrated titanium implants maintain bone levels at the site where they have been inserted, even when left non-loaded. This property of osseointegrated titanium implants can be applied to preserve interdental bone peaks. The technique described in this case report illustrates how small titanium bars were surgically inserted within the interdental osseous peaks in order to prevent bone resorption and maintain papilla height. Clinical measurements between a fixed reference point and the papilla tips were performed over a 12-month period. A positive gingival architecture was created and maintained even following multiple tooth extractions in the esthetic zone.

Applications of basic fibroblastic growth factor (FGF-2, bFGF) in dentistry.

Recent developments in research have been based on the maintenance and regeneration of natural organs and tissues; among such developments is the use of growth factors (GFs). The use of basic fibroblastic growth factors (bFGF) may be indicated in different disciplines of dentistry such as periodontics and dental traumatology. These cells' ability to induce proliferation and differentiation of cells may make GFs a useful source for the development of natural structures. This mini-review will discuss how bFGF can be beneficial to dentistry in relation to 1) re-implantation/autotransplantation of avulsed teeth and 2) periodontal regeneration.

The autogenous immediate implant supported single-tooth restoration: a 5-year follow-up.

When replacing a missing tooth in the esthetic zone, the implant supported single tooth restoration can result in a very natural and pleasing solution for the patient, being also a conservative procedure that preserves the adjacent remaining dentition. Immediate implant placement with an immediate provisional crown can avoid stressful and uncomfortable healing time for the patient who no longer has to wear an interim removable appliance. In selected clinical situations, excellent tooth esthetics for implant supported single tooth restorations can be achieved by using the natural extracted tooth as both provisional and final restoration. No longterm data is available today as far as the survival rate of such restorations and the predictability of such a treatment modality. This case report describes a technique for utilizing the patient's extracted tooth for the fabrication of an inconspicuous final anterior restoration, reporting a 5-year follow-up.